Bassa Development News

29/02/2024

ArcelorMittal does not owe anything. We have paid all our obligations in full and we encourage members of the press to follow up on these issues, “if there are issues, please let us know”



Gompa, Nimba County Liberia: – Recently, Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA) partnered with the Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL) to implement extractive sector training for approximately 70 Liberian journalists.

The initiative, supported by ArcelorMittal (AML), is widely believed to further solidify the company’s position as a leader in the extractive sector.

Reporters from five counties, namely Grand Bassa, Nimba, B**g, Margibi, and Montserrado Counties, participated in the one-day training symposium, which is crucial for promoting media understanding of the sector.

In the opening ceremonies, RAL President Willie Tokpah praised AML as the leading private-sector investor and acknowledged the company’s role in Liberia’s post-war development. He emphasized that the collaboration was vital in enabling numerous journalists to comprehend the intricacies of the extractive sector and report accurately.

“The same way AML is the biggest investor in the private sector is the same way the Reporters Association of Liberia is the largest auxiliary of the Press Union,” said Willie, emphasizing RAL’s commitment to fostering such partnerships.

He added, “RAL is willing and determined to foster this kind of partnership, and we believe by helping to get the seminar going, you have further solidified yourself in the sector in Liberia.”

This ADMA and RAL training will go a long way in equipping reporters through AML’s leadership in the mining sector.

Journalists were empowered with in-depth knowledge of extractive sector operations, ensuring accurate and informed reporting.

For instance, some of the presentations covered topics on understanding complex industry processes, interpreting financial reports, and comprehending the environmental and social impacts of extractive activities.

This tangible example of AML’s support for extractive sector reporting also focused on unveiling industry practices, support for educational initiatives promoting sustainable extraction practices, and collaboration with local communities to ensure responsible resource utilization.

AML believed companies like her to support such symposiums aimed at teaching journalists about extractive sector reporting as a way of contributing to the kind of media development that is aimed at fostering transparency, accountability, and ethical practices within the sector.

The Reporters Association itself believes that AML’s commitment to supporting initiatives will do a lot to enhance media understanding which must align with every serious company’s dedication to responsible corporate citizenship that ensures a well-informed public and sustainable development in Liberia’s extractive sector.

Meanwhile, the head of Sustainability and External Relations, at AML Marcus Wleh urged members of the media to keep the company “on our toes” and report in the right way for the benefit of the communities.

Wleh said the company has paid all its obligations in terms of taxes, fees, and royalties and commitment to county social development funds but encouraged journalists to report on all issues around the operation of AML.

“ArcelorMittal does not owe anything. We have paid all our obligations in full and we encourage members of the press to follow up on these issues, “if there are issues, please let us know”

Wleh praised the company’s phase 2 expansion as a massive program that will help spur economic growth and help with reliable job creation.

29/02/2024

𝐀𝐌𝐋 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐓𝐨 𝐑𝐀𝐋 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐲𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐮𝐦

Recently, Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA) partnered with the Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL) to implement extractive sector training for approximately 70 Liberian journalists.

The initiative, supported by ArcelorMittal (AML), is widely believed to further solidify the company’s position as a leader in the extractive sector.

Reporters from five counties: Grand Bassa, Nimba, B**g, Margibi and Montserrado, participated in the one-day training symposium, which is crucial for promoting media understanding of the sector.

In the opening ceremonies, RAL President, Willie Tokpah, praised AML as the leading private-sector investor and acknowledged the company’s role in Liberia’s post-war development. He emphasized that the collaboration was vital in enabling numerous journalists to comprehend the intricacies of the extractive sector and report accurately.

“The same way AML is the biggest investor in the private sector is the same way the Reporters Association of Liberia is the largest auxiliary of the Press Union,” said Willie, emphasizing RAL’s commitment to fostering such partnerships.

Click on the link below for more..

“ArcelorMittal does not owe anything. We have paid all our obligations in full and we encourage members of the press to follow up on these issues, “if there are issues, please let us know”

28/02/2024

RAL, ADMA Conclude Symposium On Extractive Sector Reporting With Support From ArcelorMittal Liberia

The Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL), in collaboration with Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA), has successfully concluded a day-long regional symposium in Ganta, Nimba County, on extractive industry reporting, with over fifty journalists in attendance.

RAL holds the distinction of being the largest auxiliary of the Press Union of Liberia.

The symposium, held under the theme, “Promoting Responsible Journalism for Socio-economic Development”, brought together reporters from Montserrado, B**g, Nimba, Margibi and Grand Bassa counties.

During the ceremony, Willie N. Tokpah, President of the Reporters Association of Liberia, highlighted that the symposium aimed at enhancing journalists’ capacity to report on the extractive sector, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively communicate the industry’s complexities.

President Willie Tokpah emphasized the multifaceted benefits of such a seminar, stating, “Firstly, it will empower journalists to report accurately and comprehensively on the sector, fostering transparency and public understanding.

“Secondly,” the RAL president stated, he “believes it will contribute to creating a more informed public discourse, facilitating constructive dialogue between industry stakeholders and the community.”

Tokpah added that the Ganta symposium would focus on ArcelorMittal Liberia’s operations, featuring presentations from the company’s top management.

“The impact of AML’s operations extends far beyond its economic contributions, positively influencing social development and community well-being in Liberia, especially in B**g, Nimba, and Grand Bassa.

“Thus, we believe it is important to increase public awareness of the company’s operations,” noted President Tokpah.

He expressed the belief that, if journalists understand Liberia’s natural resource sector, reporting on it will benefit the citizens and the country through increased transparency and accountability.

President Willie Tokpah also appealed to ArcelorMittal Liberia’s management to support the entity’s office space project, and praised AML’s contribution to the RAL symposium, urging a closer relationship between AML and RAL members for enhanced access during investigative and reportorial duties.

In attendance, Nimba County’s electoral district #2 lawmaker, Representative Nyah Flomo, emphasized the extractive sector’s crucial role in Liberia’s income generation and encouraged journalists to be proactive partners, ensuring effective and accountable extractive functions.

McDonald S. Kerl Sr, Technical Officer at Liberia Extractive Industries Transparency Initiatives (LEITI), lauded AML, AMDA, and RAL for organizing the symposium. He highlighted LEITI’s role in ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of Liberia’s extractive resources.

ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, Marcus Wleh, expressed gratitude to the Reporters Association of Liberia for organizing the event, pledging the company’s on-going support for the communities where they operate. He encouraged vigilance from journalists and requested that they bring any issues to the company’s attention.

The symposium, attended by more than seventy reporters, received acclaim for its impact. Attendees praised RAL’s leadership, ADMA’s support, and AML’s contribution to the event, considering it an extensive eye-opener.

Reporters committed to applying the knowledge gained at the training in their respective areas of work.

The one-day media symposium brought together media stakeholders, organizations, as well as local authorities, and political leaders, and was supported by ArcelorMittal Liberia through its partner firm, Africa Development Management Associates.

ADMA is a highly committed Team of Associates with requisite capabilities in two key developmental pillars: proven professional and technical competencies and experiences, in formulating and managing national and regional development and diplomatic policies, strategies, initiatives and institutions in Africa.

27/02/2024

The Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL) in collaboration with the Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA) has concluded a day-long regional symposium on extractive industry reporting with over fifty journalists in attendance in Ganta, Nimba County.

RAL is the largest auxiliary under the Press Union of Liberia.

The symposium was held under the theme: “Promoting Responsible Journalism for Socia-economic Development,” and brought together reporters from Montserrado, B**g, Nimba, Margibi, and Grand Bassa Counties.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Reporters Association of Liberia President Willie N. Tokpah said the symposium is aimed at enhancing the capacity of journalists reporting on the extractive sector, providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively communicate the complexities of the industry.
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Ganta, Nimba County — The Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL) in collaboration with the Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA) has concluded a day-long regional symposium on extractive industry reporting with over fifty journalists in attendance in Ganta, Nimba County. RAL is the large...

27/02/2024

RAL, ADMA Conclude Symposium On Extractive Sector Reporting With Support From ArcelorMittal Liberia

The Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL), in collaboration with Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA), has successfully concluded a day-long regional symposium in Ganta, Nimba County, on extractive industry reporting, with over fifty journalists in attendance.

RAL holds the distinction of being the largest auxiliary of the Press Union of Liberia.

The symposium, held under the theme, “Promoting Responsible Journalism for Socio-economic Development”, brought together reporters from Montserrado, B**g, Nimba, Margibi and Grand Bassa counties.

During the ceremony, Willie N. Tokpah, President of the Reporters Association of Liberia, highlighted that the symposium aimed at enhancing journalists’ capacity to report on the extractive sector, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively communicate the industry’s complexities.

President Willie Tokpah emphasized the multifaceted benefits of such a seminar, stating, “Firstly, it will empower journalists to report accurately and comprehensively on the sector, fostering transparency and public understanding.

“Secondly,” the RAL president stated, he “believes it will contribute to creating a more informed public discourse, facilitating constructive dialogue between industry stakeholders and the community.”

Tokpah added that the Ganta symposium would focus on ArcelorMittal Liberia’s operations, featuring presentations from the company’s top management.

“The impact of AML’s operations extends far beyond its economic contributions, positively influencing social development and community well-being in Liberia, especially in B**g, Nimba, and Grand Bassa.

“Thus, we believe it is important to increase public awareness of the company’s operations,” noted President Tokpah.

He expressed the belief that, if journalists understand Liberia’s natural resource sector, reporting on it will benefit the citizens and the country through increased transparency and accountability.

President Willie Tokpah also appealed to ArcelorMittal Liberia’s management to support the entity’s office space project, and praised AML’s contribution to the RAL symposium, urging a closer relationship between AML and RAL members for enhanced access during investigative and reportorial duties.

In attendance, Nimba County’s electoral district #2 lawmaker, Representative Nyah Flomo, emphasized the extractive sector’s crucial role in Liberia’s income generation and encouraged journalists to be proactive partners, ensuring effective and accountable extractive functions.

McDonald S. Kerl Sr, Technical Officer at Liberia Extractive Industries Transparency Initiatives (LEITI), lauded AML, AMDA, and RAL for organizing the symposium. He highlighted LEITI’s role in ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of Liberia’s extractive resources.

ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, Marcus Wleh, expressed gratitude to the Reporters Association of Liberia for organizing the event, pledging the company’s on-going support for the communities where they operate. He encouraged vigilance from journalists and requested that they bring any issues to the company’s attention.

The symposium, attended by more than seventy reporters, received acclaim for its impact. Attendees praised RAL’s leadership, ADMA’s support, and AML’s contribution to the event, considering it an extensive eye-opener.

Reporters committed to applying the knowledge gained at the training in their respective areas of work.

The one-day media symposium brought together media stakeholders, organizations, as well as local authorities, and political leaders, and was supported by ArcelorMittal Liberia through its partner firm, Africa Development Management Associates.

ADMA is a highly committed Team of Associates with requisite capabilities in two key developmental pillars: proven professional and technical competencies and experiences, in formulating and managing national and regional development and diplomatic policies, strategies, initiatives and institutions in Africa.

27/02/2024

Did you know that ArcelorMittal Liberia's Mount Nimba operations have significantly contributed to Liberia's economy, providing jobs and boosting local businesses? Please follow us to learn more and watch videos like these.

26/02/2024

The Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL), in collaboration with Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA), has successfully concluded a day-long regional symposium in Ganta, Nimba County, on extractive industry reporting, with over fifty journalists in attendance.

RAL holds the distinction of being the largest auxiliary of the Press Union of Liberia.

The symposium, held under the theme, “Promoting Responsible Journalism for Socio-economic Development”, brought together reporters from Montserrado, B**g, Nimba, Margibi and Grand Bassa counties.

During the ceremony, Willie N. Tokpah, President of the Reporters Association of Liberia, highlighted that the symposium aimed at enhancing journalists’ capacity to report on the extractive sector, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively communicate the industry’s complexities.

President Willie Tokpah emphasized the multifaceted benefits of such a seminar, stating, “Firstly, it will empower journalists to report accurately and comprehensively on the sector, fostering transparency and public understanding.

Click on the link below for more 👇

The Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL), in collaboration with Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA), has successfully concluded a day-long regional symposium in Ganta, Nimba County, on extractive industry reporting, with over fifty jour

22/02/2024

The ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy (AMLTA),one of Liberia’s premier vocational training institutions,has enrolled a new batch of young Liberian trainees for a three-year international-standard vocational and technical education program in several disciplines.

The latest batch of trainees are 71 in total, with 10 females. This brings the total number of students who have been enrolled at the AMLTA since its launch in 2018 to 276. Of that number, 95 have graduated and were employed by ArcelorMittal Liberia, while 110 are completing their programs.

The 71 successful candidates matriculated into the institution on February 20 in Yekepa, Nimba County, after being recruited from amongst 2,047 applicants who underwent various levels of assessments, in line with the high standards set by the AML Training Academy.

Steve Worzon, Administrative Supervisor at AMLTA,explained that after assessing all applicants, reviewing their credentials and conducting interviews, 174 successfully reached the second phase of the assessment. The 174, according to Worzon, also went through the eight Learning Ability Batteries (LAB) that assessed them in English, mathematics, science, and areas of interest, and from this assessment the 71 successful candidates were selected to form the fifth batch of trainees.

“During our assessment, we test you in English, math, science, and even the vocational career of your choice, and if we find out that you don’t fit in your chosen area but in another area we transfer you there, rather than where you have chosen,” said Worzon.

Worzon further noted that, out of the 71 new recruits, 19 are from Nimba County, 22 from Grand Bassa, and 9 from B**g County. The rest are from the other counties.

Click on the link below for more 👇

The ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy (AMLTA),one of Liberia’s premier vocational training institutions,has enrolled a new batch of young Liberian trainees for a three-year international-standard vocational and technical education program in sev

21/02/2024

Seeking Clarity and Transparency: Unpacking HPX’s Ambitious Investment Plan in Liberia

The President of Liberia His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr with Mr Robert Friedland and Mr Robert Gumede at the signing ceremony in Monrovia on Friday 9 February 2024.

Last week, Robert Friedland, the Founder and Executive Co-chairman of Canada’s Ivanhoe Mines and founder of High Power Exploration (HPX), made a significant visit to Liberia. Friedland held a meeting with President Boakai at the Executive Mansion, followed by a press briefing with media reporters. During this engagement, Friedland announced HPX’s intention to invest in Liberia, specifically to construct a new rail corridor for the transportation of raw minerals through Liberian territory from Guinea. The announcement sparked enthusiasm among Liberians, yet questions linger about the feasibility, transparency, and true benefits of HPX’s proposed venture. Many wonder precisely where HPX intends to build this corridor and when the actual work on the ground will commence. This skepticism is compounded by HPX’s commitment to invest in the Lobito corridor, a US Government initiative aimed at establishing a railway route for transporting critical raw materials from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia to the EU and the US.

While Friedland’s announcement promises economic development for Liberia, many Liberians are raising doubts about the practicality of implementing such an ambitious infrastructure project with the iron ore deposit in Guinea. Moreover, concerns arise regarding HPX’s funding strategy for the $5 billion investment in Liberia and the allocation of these funds. Meanwhile, Liberia’s Presidential Press Secretary, Kula Fofana, announced on her official page late Saturday that HPX has committed to invest $5 billion in Liberia and to construct a “rail corridor.” This is indeed good news for Liberia; however, we must ask the critical questions so that the hope of the people of Liberia is not dashed or left in limbo in the long run.

21/02/2024

Seeking Clarity and Transparency: Unpacking HPX’s Ambitious Investment Plan in Liberia

The President of Liberia His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr with Mr Robert Friedland and Mr Robert Gumede at the signing ceremony in Monrovia on Friday 9 February 2024.

Last week, Robert Friedland, the Founder and Executive Co-chairman of Canada’s Ivanhoe Mines and founder of High Power Exploration (HPX), made a significant visit to Liberia. Friedland held a meeting with President Boakai at the Executive Mansion, followed by a press briefing with media reporters. During this engagement, Friedland announced HPX’s intention to invest in Liberia, specifically to construct a new rail corridor for the transportation of raw minerals through Liberian territory from Guinea. The announcement sparked enthusiasm among Liberians, yet questions linger about the feasibility, transparency, and true benefits of HPX’s proposed venture. Many wonder precisely where HPX intends to build this corridor and when the actual work on the ground will commence. This skepticism is compounded by HPX’s commitment to invest in the Lobito corridor, a US Government initiative aimed at establishing a railway route for transporting critical raw materials from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia to the EU and the US.

While Friedland’s announcement promises economic development for Liberia, many Liberians are raising doubts about the practicality of implementing such an ambitious infrastructure project with the iron ore deposit in Guinea. Moreover, concerns arise regarding HPX’s funding strategy for the $5 billion investment in Liberia and the allocation of these funds. Meanwhile, Liberia’s Presidential Press Secretary, Kula Fofana, announced on her official page late Saturday that HPX has committed to invest $5 billion in Liberia and to construct a “rail corridor.” This is indeed good news for Liberia; however, we must ask the critical questions so that the hope of the people of Liberia is not dashed or left in limbo in the long run.

19/02/2024

ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has been committed to Liberia’s development evidently through its significant financial contributions since 2005.
The company according to payment records owes no money to the government from social development funds to taxes and royalties.

With a total government payment of $414.6 million across various categories, ArcelorMittal Liberia continues to play a crucial role in the nation’s economic progress.
The largest portion of this contribution, $160.7 million, comes from taxes paid by ArcelorMittal Liberia.

These funds bolster the government’s financial capacity to provide essential services and infrastructure, fostering overall economic stability.
Royalties, amounting to $118.8 million, contribute to the nation’s revenue stream, supporting key sectors such as education, healthcare, and social welfare, and sustainable financial support that aids Liberia in building a resilient foundation for long-term growth.

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ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has been committed to Liberia’s development evidently through its significant financial contributions since 2005. The company according to payment records owes no …

18/02/2024

Last week, Robert Friedland, the Founder and Executive Co-chairman of Canada’s Ivanhoe Mines and founder of High Power Exploration (HPX), made a significant visit to Liberia. Friedland held a meeting with President Boakai at the Executive Mansion, followed by a press briefing with media reporters. During this engagement, Friedland announced HPX’s intention to invest in Liberia, specifically to construct a new rail corridor for the transportation of raw minerals through Liberian territory from Guinea. The announcement sparked enthusiasm among Liberians, yet questions linger about the feasibility, transparency, and true benefits of HPX’s proposed venture. Many wonder precisely where HPX intends to build this corridor and when the actual work on the ground will commence. This skepticism is compounded by HPX’s commitment to invest in the Lobito corridor, a US Government initiative aimed at establishing a railway route for transporting critical raw materials from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia to the EU and the US.

While Friedland’s announcement promises economic development for Liberia, many Liberians are raising doubts about the practicality of implementing such an ambitious infrastructure project with the iron ore deposit in Guinea. Moreover, concerns arise regarding HPX’s funding strategy for the $5 billion investment in Liberia and the allocation of these funds. Meanwhile, Liberia’s Presidential Press Secretary, Kula Fofana, announced on her official page late Saturday that HPX has committed to invest $5 billion in Liberia and to construct a “rail corridor.” This is indeed good news for Liberia; however, we must ask the critical questions so that the hope of the people of Liberia is not dashed or left in limbo in the long run.

15/02/2024

Last week, Robert Friedland, the Founder and Executive Co-chairman of Canada’s Ivanhoe Mines and founder of High Power Exploration (HPX), made a significant visit to Liberia. Friedland held a meeting with President Boakai at the Executive Mansion, followed by a press briefing with media reporters. During this engagement, Friedland announced HPX’s intention to invest in Liberia, specifically to construct a new rail corridor for the transportation of raw minerals through Liberian territory from Guinea. The announcement sparked enthusiasm among Liberians, yet questions linger about the feasibility, transparency, and true benefits of HPX’s proposed venture. Many wonder precisely where HPX intends to build this corridor and when the actual work on the ground will commence. This skepticism is compounded by HPX’s commitment to invest in the Lobito corridor, a US Government initiative aimed at establishing a railway route for transporting critical raw materials from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia to the EU and the US.

While Friedland’s announcement promises economic development for Liberia, many Liberians are raising doubts about the practicality of implementing such an ambitious infrastructure project with the iron ore deposit in Guinea. Moreover, concerns arise regarding HPX’s funding strategy for the $5 billion investment in Liberia and the allocation of these funds. Meanwhile, Liberia’s Presidential Press Secretary, Kula Fofana, announced on her official page late Saturday that HPX has committed to invest $5 billion in Liberia and to construct a “rail corridor.” This is indeed good news for Liberia; however, we must ask the critical questions so that the hope of the people of Liberia is not dashed or left in limbo in the long run.

Click on the link below for more 👇

Last week, Robert Friedland, the Founder and Executive Co-chairman of Canada’s Ivanhoe Mines and founder of High Power Exploration (HPX), made a significant visit to Liberia. Friedland held a meeting with President Boakai at the Executive Mansion, followed by a press briefing with media reporters....

14/02/2024

The devil is in the details” is an idiom alluding to a catch or mysterious element hidden in the details of an agreement or a plan between parties or individuals.

It is a phrase that indicates that something may seem simple or sound glamorous, as in the case of HPX’s big $5 billion investment plan in Liberia, but the details of such investment could be complicated and may end in limbo.

“As it is always said, the devil is in the details,” a key phrase that concluded Gbarpolu County Senator Amara Konneh’s commitment to dissecting High Power Exploration’s (HPX) plan to invest in Liberia.

Given HPX’s troubled business dealings in Liberia, early Monday, the former Finance Minister, now a senator, posted on Facebook: “We welcome the HPX announcement by President Boakai’s office.”

But Amara insisted, “HPX could have opted for this option a long time ago, and there would have been no issues,” referring to what seems to have been a backdoor arrangement with the Weah administration where a questionable $30 million was paid to the Weah government on the strength of a “non-binding” framework agreement that never materialized. Senator Konneh further cautioned that Liberia, as a country, must pay attention to the details of this new investment by HPX and others to avoid any future debt burden. Senator Konneh’s caution represents the echoes of a familiar and recent experience where in the earliest period of George Weah’s administration Liberians celebrated the signing of the Eton Financing and EBOMAF SA Loan Agreements, for the construction and pavements of 830 kilometers road network in Liberia, which later turned out to be white elephant agreements that never materialized.

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MONROVIA: “The devil is in the details” is an idiom alluding to a catch or mysterious element hidden in the details of an agreement or a plan between parties or individuals. It is a phrase that indicates that something may seem simple or sound glamorous, as in the case of HPX’s big $5 billion ...