On Friday, October 25, 2024, Western Cluster Liberia Limited (WCL) CEO, Joseph Coalho, called on the Liberian government to ensure greater accountability regarding the company’s financial contributions to western Liberia under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments.
Speaking during a stakeholders meeting held in Tubmanburg, Coalho emphasized that the mineral development agreement (MDA) between WCL and the government requires transparency in managing and reporting on the company’s financial contributions. He explained that the lack of clear accountability creates the false impression that the company is not fulfilling its obligations, leading to public dissatisfaction.
“We make our financial contributions as required by the MDA, but without transparent reports on how these funds are used, it will appear as though Western Cluster is not doing anything for the community,” Coalho stated. “This situation results in citizens turning against us, thinking we are neglecting our responsibilities”.
In light of these challenges, Coalho proposed a new payment structure for the social development funds allocated to Bomi, Grand Cape Mount, and Gbarpolu Counties. According to his proposal, funds meant for these counties should be deposited directly into county accounts rather than being channeled first through government accounts in Monrovia.
“What belongs to the three counties should go straight to their accounts, instead of passing through the central government and later filtering down,” Coalho said. “This would ensure easier access to the funds and prevent delays that often cause frustration at the local level.”
Coalho explained that this change would not only promote efficiency but also build trust between the company, the government, and the community by ensuring that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries on time.
In response, the head of the National Bureau of Concessions (NBC), Theodo Momo, commended Western Cluster for raising the issue and acknowledged the importance of Coalho’s proposal.
“The proposal from Western Cluster is well-reasoned and could improve how social funds are managed,” Momo said. “However, this matter needs to be taken to the appropriate government agency for consideration and possible implementation.”
Momo assured the audience that the NBC is committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the MDA terms are followed and that communities benefit from the company’s operations.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing on the need for greater collaboration between the company, the government, and the communities. Coalho reaffirmed WCL’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the MDA but emphasized that accountability and transparency from all stakeholders are essential for success.
“We are here to support development in Western Liberia, but we need the process to be transparent. With the right accountability, we can achieve more and ensure that these funds are used where they are most needed,” Coalho stressed.
The stakeholders agreed to continue discussions on the proposed changes to the payment structure and emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue to address any emerging issues.
This meeting marked another step toward improving governance and cooperation in the management of social development funds, ensuring that both the company and the affected communities benefit from WCL’s presence in the region.
