ARCELORMITTAL CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY -CEO Reflects over Liberia’s Enduring First Major Postwar Investment -Announces $1.4 billion phase two expansion projects

MONROVIA – If Liberia’s postwar investment history is written, it would be incomplete without mentioning a very few concessionaries. Amongst the few, however, there are few investors that remain steadfast, even in the face of national and international challenges, including devastating pandemics and world economic crunch, amongst other things. ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) stands out profoundly amongst the true friends of Liberia, ensuring plethora of crucibles of time for 20 long years, which anniversary it celebrates this month, as The Analyst reports.   

ArcelorMittal Liberia, the leading private sector investor in Liberia, over the weekend began celebration of its two decades of contributions to Liberia’s economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

The anniversary event brought together key stakeholders, including employees, local leaders, and government representatives, all gathered to honor the company’s two decades of progress and achievements at Monrovia’s Invisible Park over the weekend.

In remarks, Michiel Van Der Merwe, ArcelorMittal Liberia Chief Executive officer, delivered a powerful message underscoring the company’s continued commitment to Liberia’s future.

“Today marks a significant milestone as we begin celebrating our 20th anniversary in Liberia,” the CEO said. “Over the past two decades, we have built a legacy of innovation, positive impact, and a deep connection with the communities we serve. From our first excavation to today’s state-of-the-art operations, we have remained committed to delivering high-quality products, fostering community partnerships, and maintaining a strong focus on sustainability.”

Merwe reflected on the company’s remarkable journey, highlighting that ArcelorMittal Liberia’s success has been driven by the dedication and hard work of its talented workforce and the steadfast support of its partners and local communities.

“Our success would not have been possible without the dedication of our team and the collaboration with our partners and local communities,” he added. “We are proud of the progress we’ve made and the positive impact we’ve had on the lives of thousands of Liberians.”

He emphasized the importance of the company’s Vocational Training Center, which offers residential certificate courses in mechanical and electrical trades, as a cornerstone of its workforce development initiatives.

ArcelorMittal has also launched advanced development programs for high-potential Liberian employees, equipping them with the skills necessary to grow within the company’s global mining operations.

A key announcement made during the celebration was the company’s commitment to expanding its operations in Liberia. This expansion is seen as a crucial part of ArcelorMittal’s long-term vision to create more jobs and further stimulate the country’s economic growth.

“As we move forward, we remain focused on expanding our railway operations, which will not only enhance our efficiency but also contribute to the broader economic development of Liberia. Our goal is to continue creating jobs, fostering economic opportunities, and ensuring that our growth benefits all Liberians,” Merwe noted.

He also highlighted that the company’s contributions to Liberia extend beyond job creation. He pointed to ArcelorMittal’s more the $800 Million investment in rehabilitating and expanding the capacity of the 243-kilometer railway connecting the Yekepa mine to the Port of Buchanan. The project, he said, has revitalized a critical transportation route, boosting the local economy and enhancing the nation’s export capabilities.

According to him more than 2,000 additional jobs are expected to be created through the ongoing Phase Two Expansion project, with a strong emphasis on hiring locally.

“These jobs represent more than just positions within the company; they offer Liberians opportunities to build sustainable careers, contribute to their communities, and take part in the country’s growth,”

The superintendents of Grand Bassa, Nimba counties plus dozens of guests gathered graced the occasion and lauded ArcelorMittal Liberia for its contributions to post war recovery efforts in Liberia. The emphasized the need for more develop in the host communities as the company expands. 

AML has meanwhile declared that 2025 is the year of Liberia’s project progress, making direct reference to the $1.4 billion phase two expansion projects.

The phase two expansion project seeks to increase Production Capacity: The project aims to boost iron ore production from 5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 15 MTPA, with a focus on producing a blended product.

Its job creation capacity is put at 1200 new permanent positions, alongside 2,000 short-term construction jobs, with anticipation of increasing government revenue from $35 million to $ 200 million, providing broader economic benefits to Liberia and an increase in corporate social responsibility funding to Grand Bassa, Bong and Nimba Counties.

As AML expands, the company has committed to enhancing infrastructure, including more investments in logistics and infrastructure, particularly related to the railway system, which will improve transportation efficiency for iron ore.

Under training and development, the project emphasizes the workforce training and capacity enhancement of local talent to prepare for the increased production demands and operational needs.

The project signals a long-term partnership which ArcelorMittal Liberia aims to strengthen by contributing to sustainable economic growth and development in the region.

Overall, the Phase II Expansion Project is seen with the ranks of senior management team members as a step forward in enhancing both ArcelorMittal’s operational capabilities and its contribution to the Liberian economy.