18/03/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
National Bureau of Concessions (NBC) Delegation Conducts Compliance Monitoring Mission at ArcelorMittal Liberia.
Yekepa, Nimba County The National Bureau of Concessions (NBC), led by Director General Hon. Hanson Kiazolu and his deputies,is currently on an official monitoring mission at ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) in Nimba County.
The delegation includes senior officials from several NBC departments, including the Mining Director, Director for Concessions, Deputy Director for Administration, and the Assistant Director General for Concessions. The mission aims to monitor compliance with concession agreements, assess concession projects and infrastructure, and engage concessionaires, local communities, and other stakeholders across Nimba and Grand Bassa Counties.
This visit forms part of NBC’s Decentralization Agenda, which seeks to strengthen oversight of concession operations while creating greater opportunities for Liberians.
Opening Engagement with ArcelorMittal Liberia
The monitoring exercise began with a face-to-face conference at ArcelorMittal Liberia’s conference room, where the NBC delegation met with the company’s senior management team led by CEO Mr. Michiel Van der Merwe.
Mr. Van der Merwe welcomed the NBC team and expressed appreciation to the Government of Liberia for the engagement,reaffirming AML’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities as a concession company.He introduced key members of his management team, including Mr. Ahmed Massaquoi,Health and Safety Manager; Mr. Murray Wleh, Head of Sustainable Development and External Relations; and Mr. John Murray, Head of the Environmental Department.
Investment and Economic Contributions
According to the CEO, ArcelorMittal Liberia has made one of the largest private sector investments in Liberia since 2005, totaling approximately US$3.5 billion.This investment includes the rehabilitation of railroads, port facilities,power systems, and township infrastructure, with mining operations officially commencing in 2011.
AML has also significantly increased Liberia’s iron ore export capacity from 5 million tonnes annually to about 10 million tonnes in 2025, with projections to reach 20 million tonnes by early 2027.
The company currently provides over 11,700 direct jobs, with 89 percent of its workforce made up of Liberians, demonstrating strong commitment to localization and skills development.
Additionally, AML has contributed US$53.2 million to the County Social Development Fund (CSDF) to support development projects in host communities.
Expansion, Safety, and Community Development
ArcelorMittal Liberia is currently undertaking major expansion projects, including upgrades to the port facility, railway system, and the construction of a new concentrator complex at Tokadeh. The company also operates ten engines at the Tokadeh powerhouse to support its mining operations.
AML emphasized its strong commitment to employee safety and community protection, working closely with the Liberia National Police while also conducting railroad safety awareness campaigns through radio programs and community outreach initiatives.
Education and Health Support
The company also contributes to social development through its education and health programs. AML operates two primary schools and one secondary school, while supporting 34 professionals and 99 students studying abroad through scholarship programs.
In the health sector, the company maintains two hospitals in Yekepa and Buchanan, along with clinics that provide medical services to employees and surrounding communities.AML has also undertaken housing renovation initiatives to improve living conditions in its operational areas.
Key Discussions During the Engagement
During the meeting,NBC officials raised concerns about railroad safety awareness and local content opportunities for Liberian businesses and workers.
Director General Hon. Hanson Kiazolu also inquired about future infrastructure expansion, including the possibility of constructing an additional railway line.
AML management confirmed that capacity expansion efforts are already underway.
Meanwhile, NBC Mining Director Mr. Alphonsus disclosed plans for biannual ministerial engagements within a 90-day period to strengthen collaboration between the government and concession companies.
Strengthening Oversight
The NBC delegation emphasized that the monitoring mission reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that concession agreements deliver real economic benefits, infrastructure development,employment opportunities,and environmental protection for the Liberian people.
The compliance and monitoring exercise will continue in Nimba and Grand Bassa Counties, with further engagements planned with communities and other stakeholders.
Signed:
Public Relations Unit
National Bureau of Concessions (NBC)
Republic of Liberia 🇱🇷