–Says Liberians Expect More
ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) recently hosted a farewell ceremony to honor its former CEO, Jozephus “Joep” Coenen, in Buchanan City. The event was a testament to Coenen’s contributions to both the company and the local communities.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the speech delivered by Atty. Edwin N. Dennis, Director General of the National Bureau of Concessions (NBC). Atty. Dennis lauded Coenen for his exemplary leadership and collaborative spirit, which had a profound impact on AML’s operations and its community engagements.
“Working with Joep as Director General of the NBC and ensuring compliance is achieved, those of you who work with ArcelorMittal will understand that under his leadership we were able to restructure the scholarship program,” Dennis said.
“Under his leadership, the benefits got increased in terms of the number of Liberians who got scholarships from the company. Under his leadership, we understood the difference between a scholarship for all Liberians and a training program for workers of Mittal.”
Dennis emphasized the value of Coenen’s partnership with the government. “If you have such a good person who understands what it means to partner with the government and to see him leave, I am sure the board of Mittal has something better for Liberia.
“So, I am hoping that I will have the opportunity to meet you (the new CEO). He thanked ‘Joep’ for the opportunity provided the National Bureau of Concessions in implementing its roles and for Joep’s ‘role and understanding to take some corrective measures’.”
The NBC director general expressed his hope that AML’s positive trajectory would continue under the new leadership, stating, “I am hoping that this will continue with Mittal because our people and our country expect a lot from ArcelorMittal, and we hope that by working through the agreement our people will achieve a lot.”
Dennis also praised Coenen’s dedication to community development, highlighting his commitment to ensuring that the local communities were treated fairly and their rights were respected.
“For the communities, you have a very resilient community and they know how to get their rights. ‘Joep’ was a very good community person. He told me that he wanted to work with the communities to make sure that the communities were treated the way they should be treated.”
In his address, Coenen expressed gratitude to the dedicated employees and stakeholders who supported him throughout his tenure. “It has been an honor to lead ArcelorMittal Liberia and work alongside such talented individuals,” Coenen said. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and I have every confidence that the company will continue to succeed.”
The farewell ceremony featured speeches from various AML departments and dignitaries, including former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor.
Taylor praised Coenen’s efforts in contributing to the country’s economic growth and strengthening trade relations. The event was marked by the presentation of gifts, symbolizing the strong relationships built during Coenen’s leadership.
ArcelorMittal has announced the appointment of Michiel Van Der Merwe as the new CEO. Merwe, who was present at the farewell program, is expected to continue the positive momentum set by his predecessor.
The event highlighted Joep Coenen’s lasting impact on ArcelorMittal Liberia and the communities it serves, setting a high standard for the company’s future endeavors.