Mines Ministry Says Investment Conference Will Be Judged on Jobs, Not Turnout

Published: October 19, 2026

MONROVIA — The Ministry of Mines and Energy says its upcoming international mining and energy conference should be measured by the investment it brings in, the partnerships it builds and the jobs it creates for Liberians, not by how many people attend.

By Melvin Jackson

The ministry launched the 2026 Liberia International Mining and Energy Conference and Exhibition on Friday, Oct. 16, at its conference room in Monrovia. The event is scheduled for Oct. 28-29 at the Farmington Hotel in Margibi County.

“Liberia 2026 is more than a conference and exhibition,” a ministry official said at the launch. The official described the event as a chance to build partnerships and find practical solutions to economic development obstacles.

The conference will bring together policymakers, mining companies, energy developers, international investors, technical experts and development partners. Discussions are expected to cover investment opportunities, regulatory reform, infrastructure and ways to improve the generation, distribution and affordability of electricity. Reliable, affordable power remains a major concern for households, businesses and industry across the country.

The official said Liberia must move beyond simply extracting its resources and build a framework that delivers measurable benefits to its people. The government’s stated priorities include stronger regulatory institutions, responsible mining, wider electricity access and an investment climate that draws private capital while protecting national interests.

The official acknowledged that mineral deposits and energy potential alone will not secure lasting investment. Credible investors, the ministry said, look for clear regulations, consistent policy, capable institutions and adequate infrastructure.

The ministry said mining and energy projects must comply with Liberian law and environmental standards, and must deliver tangible benefits to host communities. Those benefits include jobs, skills training, improved infrastructure and greater participation by Liberian businesses. It also pledged transparent resource governance and stronger oversight.

The launch drew government representatives, members of the diplomatic community, development partners, investors, sponsors and journalists. The ministry thanked the partners, sponsors, and organizers involved in planning the event and urged industry stakeholders to attend and bring proposals to improve governance, infrastructure, and investment.