ArcelorMittal Liberia celebrates 20 years of operations with a $2 billion Phase II Expansion Project, increasing iron ore production from 5 MTPA to 15 MTPA. This endeavor promises to create over 5,000 jobs, enhance infrastructure, and uplift the local economy while committing to responsible mining and community support initiatives.
ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) recently celebrated its 20th anniversary by unveiling its Phase II Expansion Project, which involves an investment of over $2 billion aimed at significantly enhancing its iron ore production. This expansion is projected to increase production from 5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 15 MTPA, with a focus on creating thousands of jobs and strengthening the nation’s economy by upgrading the railway and port infrastructure.
CEO Michiel Van Der Merwe highlighted the critical role AML has played in transforming Liberia’s mining sector over the past two decades. He expressed the company’s commitment to responsible mining, community development, and capacity building. The expansion will include the inauguration of a concentrator and is expected to elevate Liberia’s status as a global iron ore supplier, ensuring operational excellence in its supply chain.
The ambitious plans for 2025 include the transportation of 20 million tons of iron ore annually, necessitating improvements to the railway infrastructure from Yekepa to Buchanan. Van Der Merwe emphasized the significance of maintaining railway efficiency as essential for the smooth transit of resources. He also hinted at further expansions and detailed enhancements which are integral to the Phase II initiative.
The construction of this expansion is anticipated to generate over 5,000 jobs, alongside 1,200 permanent positions for locals. Since its establishment in 2005, AML has revitalized Liberia’s mining sector post-conflict, having invested substantially in restoring vital infrastructures such as the Buchanan-Yekepa railway damaged during the civil war.
Under the leadership of Michiel Van Der Merwe, who has over 25 years of experience in mining, AML is also constructing a state-of-the-art iron ore processing facility in Zolowee Town, Nimba County. This initiative aims to add value before the export of Liberia’s iron ore and strengthen the country’s presence in global markets, contributing to local employment opportunities.
The $2 billion investment will also boost government revenue, increasing from $35M to $75M annually. AML, as Liberia’s largest private-sector employer, has already provided over 2,100 direct jobs and invested a total of $2.5 billion in Liberia thus far. A significant aspect of the expansion involves modernizing the railway to meet U.S. standards, enhancing operational efficiency with new railway technology and additional resources.
Additionally, AML is committed to education and skills development initiatives, providing vocational training, scholarships, and opportunities for local students through various programs. With over 1,000 children enrolled in their school system and other training schemes, AML underscores its dedication to community upliftment.
With the first shipment of iron ore from the expansion expected in 2025, AML’s Phase II Expansion project sets a precedent for responsible mining practices in West Africa. The company is dedicated to promoting economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development in Liberia, reiterating its role in supporting the locale amidst its journey of resilience and expansion.
In conclusion, ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Phase II Expansion Project marks a significant milestone in the company’s two-decade involvement in Liberia, with over $2 billion set to enhance iron ore production and create thousands of jobs. This project aims to revitalize the mining sector, foster local development, and ensure sustainable economic growth. Through significant investments in infrastructure and education, AML demonstrates its commitment to Liberia’s future in the global mining industry.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
