By Jamesetta D. Williams
Minister of Mines and Energy, R. Matenokay Tingban, has emphasized the need for responsible management of the country’s mineral resources and increased employment opportunities for Liberians as part of efforts to maximize the benefits of the mining sector.
The Minister made the remarks during a visit to ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) in Grand Bassa County as part of an ongoing nationwide inspection tour of mining companies operating across the country.
According to Minister Tingban, the government remains committed to ensuring that Liberia’s natural resources are managed in a manner that benefits all citizens and contributes meaningfully to national development.
As part of that effort, he disclosed that the Ministry of Mines and Energy is developing plans to undertake a comprehensive nationwide geological survey aimed at determining the exact quantity, location, and value of Liberia’s mineral resources.
The Minister noted that while Liberia is widely believed to possess significant deposits of minerals, detailed scientific data is needed to accurately assess the country’s resource potential and guide future investment and policy decisions.
“We must know exactly what we have beneath our soil in order to make informed decisions about how those resources are managed and utilized for the benefit of the Liberian people,” he indicated.
Minister Tingban also issued a warning to exploration companies operating in Liberia, urging them to adhere strictly to the terms and conditions of their licenses.
He stressed that companies that fail to fulfill their contractual obligations or comply with government regulations risk having their licenses revoked and reassigned to investors prepared to develop the country’s resources responsibly.
The Mines and Energy Minister further underscored the importance of creating more employment opportunities for Liberians within the mining sector. He said effective resource management has the potential to generate jobs, increase government revenue, improve infrastructure, and stimulate broader economic growth.
According to him, the mining industry should serve as a catalyst for national development by ensuring that Liberians benefit directly from the country’s natural wealth through employment, skills development, and economic empowerment.
During the visit, Minister Tingban commended ArcelorMittal Liberia for its investments in key sectors, including transportation infrastructure, mining operations, and healthcare services.
He praised the company for its contributions to Liberia’s development while encouraging its management to continue expanding opportunities for Liberian workers and supporting local communities.
The inspection tour forms part of the Ministry’s broader effort to monitor mining activities across the country, ensure compliance with national regulations, and strengthen the sector’s contribution to Liberia’s economic and social development.
Government officials say the exercise is intended to promote accountability, responsible mining practices, and sustainable development as Liberia seeks to maximize the benefits derived from its natural resources.
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