China’s funding has enabled Liberia to conduct its first comprehensive mineral survey in 50 years, revealing significant deposits of lithium, neodymium, silver, and other valuable minerals. Key government officials highlight the potential for economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure improvements stemming from these discoveries and additional Chinese investments, including a major broadcasting project.
A national survey, funded by China, has identified significant mineral deposits in Liberia, creating new avenues for development. This survey is the first of its kind in 50 years and discovered valuable minerals such as lithium, neodymium, silver, nickel, zinc, uranium, and cobalt. The findings suggest that Liberia can diversify its economy away from its traditional dependence on iron ore, rubber, gold, and diamonds, according to the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
Rexford Sartuh, the assistant minister for mineral exploration at the Ministry of Mines and Energy, expressed gratitude to China for the support in uncovering these resources. He emphasized that attracting investment in these areas could potentially create jobs and stimulate economic growth in regions rich in these minerals. The discovery marks a significant shift for Liberia, presenting it with opportunities for sustainable development.
Fanseh Mulbah, deputy minister for planning at the ministry, noted that this survey is pivotal, being the first since the U.S.-sponsored effort in 1973. The new minerals, such as lithium and cobalt, are vital for the electric vehicle sector, aiding Liberia’s transition from fossil fuels. Companies can now legally prospect these resources following the survey findings.
In a recent address to the 55th Legislature, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai announced the survey’s findings from the Chinese government, highlighting Liberia’s mineral resource potential. He also referred to the progress of the $5.5 million China-backed expansion project for the Liberia Broadcasting System, emphasizing that it is ahead of schedule and will enhance the capabilities of national broadcasting.
Once the broadcasting complex is completed, it will significantly improve Liberia’s radio and television services, providing better educational and informational content to the public. The integration of advanced equipment will ensure that the broadcasting infrastructure meets contemporary standards, thus enriching the media landscape in Liberia.
Liberia, a West African nation, has relied heavily on traditional exports such as iron ore, rubber, gold, and diamonds for its economic sustenance. The recent survey, the most comprehensive in the last 50 years, funded by the Chinese government, indicates a strategic shift for Liberia by identifying new mineral deposits that can diversify the economy and harness more sustainable energy sources. Reports on mineral discoveries are instrumental in guiding potential investments and future economic planning.
The China-funded mineral survey has unveiled promising deposits in Liberia, allowing it to diversify its economic base. This development is expected to attract investments, create jobs, and foster regional growth. Additionally, the construction of the modern Broadcasting System complex signifies China’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s infrastructure, enhancing its media capabilities, and contributing to the nation’s overall development.
Original Source: www.chinadaily.com.cn
