Published: February 25, 2026
Paynesville – In a move reinforcing its long-standing partnership with Liberia’s flagship grassroots sporting event, ArcelorMittal Liberia has presented US$35,000 to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, fulfilling a pledge made during the 2025/2026 National County Sports Meet. The symbolic presentation took place at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville, where representatives of thirteen out of fifteen counties gathered to receive their respective shares.
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The disbursement, carried out in categories determined by the Ministry, is intended to ease post-tournament obligations and sustain the unity the competition promotes nationwide.
Strengthening the Spirit of National Unity
Through Sports The National County Sports Meet, organized annually by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, is designed to foster reconciliation, unity, youth empowerment, and regional pride through sporting competition. ArcelorMittal Liberia’s contribution, officials say, aligns with these objectives by supporting counties beyond the pitch.
Head of Sustainability and External Relations Marcus Wleh, speaking on behalf of the company’s leadership, described the gesture as part of a deeper corporate commitment to national cohesion. “Organizing the County Meet is no small feat. We recognize the effort, the debts that sometimes follow, and the need to keep the spirit alive even after the games end. This support is our way of helping to rekindle and maintain that spirit of good sportsmanship across all fifteen counties.”
Wleh also highlighted the company’s history with the tournament, noting that its involvement dates back more than a decade. “ArcelorMittal’s relationship with the County Meet goes back to around 2010 when we began supporting counties in our concession areas. Today’s contribution shows that our commitment to Liberia’s youth and national unity remains strong.”
Counties Welcome Relief Amid Financial Pressures
Checks were presented to several counties, including Grand Cape Mount and Margibi receiving US$3,000 each, River Gee receiving US$2,000, Maryland receiving US$1,500, Bassa US$2,000, Montserrado US$2,000, River Cess US$1,500, Grand Kru US$5,250, Grand Gedeh US$1,500, Bomi US$1,500, Nimba counties US$5,250, Sinoe US$1,500, US$1,500, Lofa US$1,500, Bong US$2,000 and Gbarpolu US$1,500.
Responding on behalf of the County Steering Committees, Bomi County Chairman Abdul D. Kanneh expressed gratitude, noting that the funds will help reduce outstanding financial burdens following the tournament. “Since the County Meet ended, many counties have struggled to meet commitments to players and vendors. While this may not clear every bill, it will certainly ease the pressure and reduce tensions.”
Superintendents Call for Continued Government Support
Representing the Council of Superintendents, Grand Kru County Development Superintendent Joe Sekpeh praised both the Ministry and ArcelorMittal Liberia, but also urged government to fast-track remaining payments to counties. “We are still indebted to vendors and partners who supported the tournament. We appreciate this intervention and hope the government will expedite the remaining allotments so counties can continue their development work.”
The latest contribution forms part of what ArcelorMittal Liberia says is a broader investment in youth development, social cohesion, and national identity through sports. Stakeholders at the ceremony described the support not simply as sponsorship, but as a reinforcement of the County Meet’s core purpose — bringing Liberians together across regional, cultural, and political lines.
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