BONG COUNTY – Residents of rail-impacted communities in Bong County have thrown their support behind ArcelorMittal Liberia’s (AML) expansion plans and the ratification of its new Mineral Development Agreement (MDA), calling it a crucial step toward economic growth and development.
The endorsement, delivered on Saturday in Botota Town, Tokpablee Administrative District, gathered local leaders, community representatives, and citizens, signaling a collective approval of AML’s proposed expansion plans. This pivotal moment comes as Liberia continues to grapple with economic uncertainties, heightening the significance of investments in key sectors like mining.
Bong County Superintendent Hawa Loleyah Norris, addressing the assembly, underscored the importance of unified community consensus.
“All that we agreed on here today, I want to ensure it is the decision of all the people in all the affected communities through their representatives here present,” she declared, reaffirming her commitment to advancing the community’s voice to the Bong County Legislative Caucus and the national government.
Throughout the gathering, Superintendent Norris steered in-depth discussions on the petition submitted by the communities. While acknowledging the necessity of community demands, she cautioned against undermining the presence of AML, emphasizing that protecting investments is crucial to sustaining development.
“While it is good to make demands, communities impacted by ArcelorMittal Liberia’s operations need to embrace the operation of the concession and protect its investments,” she noted.
The community petition praised AML for its contributions to Liberia’s economy, from job creation and infrastructure development to improvements in education and healthcare. However, it also highlighted challenges such as insufficient local employment, environmental hazards, and delayed compensations for property damage. In their recommendations, the residents called for increased social development funds, stronger environmental protections, and the establishment of a rail corridor development fund to ensure the company’s expanded operations translate into tangible benefits for the communities.
Superintendent Norris further urged unity among community members, pointing out the adverse impact of internal conflicts on development progress.
“Development cannot come if we continue to fight among ourselves and tear each other down,” she cautioned. “We need to come together, to move the county and district forward so that we change the way our communities look.”
As the Bong County Legislative Caucus and the national government prepare to review the recommendations, residents remain hopeful that their concerns will be addressed in the final MDA. With AML’s expansion projected to drive increased revenues, job opportunities, and improved social services, the community’s endorsement marks a significant step towards fostering inclusive development.
“We appreciate your leadership and look forward to your support in ensuring that this agreement delivers tangible benefits to our communities,” the petition stated.
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