President-elect Joseph Boakai is set to transform Liberia’s fortunes by scrutinizing mining concessions to ensure they truly benefit the nation. In a candid interview, the 78-year-old, determined to ‘rescue’ Liberia from economic challenges, emphasized the need to address long-standing issues like corruption and inadequate services.
Boakai highlighted the mining sector as a prime area where Liberians have been left behind, despite the country’s abundant mineral wealth. With diamonds, gold, iron ore, and timber in Liberia’s grasp, he expressed concern over the exploitation of resources, leaving the people in dire conditions.
“The mining sector has been one of the problems in this country. I have seen our resources exploited, and the life of the people remains the worse,” Boakai remarked, pledging a thorough examination of the sector. When questioned about reviewing mining concessions, he affirmed, “We have to, because we are inheriting.”
Liberia hosts several companies in its mining sector, including ArcelorMittal and Bao Chico Resources in iron ore, and Bea Mountain Mining and Avesoro Resources in gold. Boakai’s commitment to assessing these concessions signifies a pivotal move toward a fairer distribution of Liberia’s wealth.
Despite a 4.8% economic growth in 2022 driven by gold production and a decent rice harvest, over 80% of the population still faces food insecurity. Boakai’s determination to address economic imbalances is a beacon of hope for a brighter future in Liberia.
By Eve Waruingi