ArcelorMittal Liberia has officially commissioned its first-ever Iron Ore Concentrator in Yekepa as part of its $2 billion Phase II Expansion Project, signaling what government officials and company executives describe as a new era of industrial growth and economic opportunity for Liberia.
The facility was dedicated by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who praised the investment as a “transformational step” in the country’s natural resource sector. The ceremony, held at the Tokadeh Mine site, brought together government officials, company executives, community leaders, and citizens from across Nimba County.
“This project demonstrates our country’s capacity to attract large-scale, long-term investment. We are encouraged by the commitment of ArcelorMittal to go beyond extraction and to help us add value to our natural resources,” President Boakai stated.
The newly inaugurated concentrator is designed to process 15 million tons of iron ore per year, upgrading raw ore into high-grade concentrate suitable for steel production. This development enables Liberia to move away from exporting unprocessed iron ore and toward higher-value mineral exports.
ArcelorMittal’s Executive Chairman, Lakshmi N. Mittal, who traveled to Liberia for the occasion, reiterated the company’s long-term commitment to the country.
“We will complete the pavement of the Ganta-to-Yekepa road,” Mittal declared, responding to long-standing transportation concerns from communities in northern Liberia.
According to ArcelorMittal Liberia, the expansion will create over 5,000 construction jobs and 1,200 full-time positions, with a focus on employing Liberians and building local skills. The company also projects that its annual payments to the Government of Liberia (GOL) will increase from $35 million to $200 million through taxes, royalties, and other contributions.
“This is not just about mining; it’s about improving lives, building infrastructure, and supporting Liberia’s development priorities,” said AML’s CEO during remarks at the event.
The Phase II Expansion also includes major upgrades to Liberia’s 243-kilometer Yekepa–Buchanan railway and port infrastructure, aimed at improving the efficiency of ore transportation and trade logistics.
In the education sector, ArcelorMittal has constructed modern schools and awarded hundreds of scholarships, including support for the newly established Nimba University. In health, the company has renovated clinics in Nimba and Grand Bassa counties and supplied essential medical equipment.
Additionally, AML is increasing its procurement from Liberian-owned businesses, helping local entrepreneurs grow through contracts and training. “By sourcing goods and services locally, we’re helping to build a stronger Liberian economy,” said a company spokesperson.
ArcelorMittal also reaffirmed its commitment to responsible mining. The concentrator is equipped with a system for recycling water and managing mining waste more safely, reducing environmental impacts. On-going environmental programs include tree-planting, land reclamation, and controlled use of natural resources.
The company continues to engage with local communities through regular dialogue and social investment. It has built markets, town halls, and community roads, and is supporting resettlement and livelihood restoration for residents affected by mining operations.
Government officials at the dedication described the concentrator as a game-changer for Liberia’s economy. In addition to the direct jobs and revenues, the expansion is expected to stimulate growth across related sectors and enhance Liberia’s standing as a regional mining hub.
“This is the kind of value-added investment Liberia needs,” said Mines and Energy Minister Wilmot Paye. “It brings technology, jobs, and long-term partnerships.”
As the plant ramps up operations, communities along the Ganta–Yekepa corridor and beyond are hopeful that the promised road pavement and sustained investment will translate into real, long-term benefits for ordinary Liberians.