ArcelorMittal Liberia celebrates its 20th anniversary with a $2 billion Phase II Expansion Project that will increase iron ore production and create thousands of jobs. The project includes significant infrastructure upgrades and reflects the company’s commitment to responsible mining and community development.
ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) is commemorating its 20 years of operation in Liberia by launching a $2 billion Phase II Expansion Project. This initiative aims to triple iron ore production from 5 million tonnes per annum to 15 million tonnes, with plans for substantial improvements to infrastructure, particularly an $800 million investment in the heavy-haul railway system. The expansion is anticipated to create thousands of jobs and enhance Liberia’s economic framework.
During a celebration held at the Invincible Park in Monrovia, Michiel Van Der Merwe, CEO of AML, highlighted 2025 as a critical year for expanding operations in Liberia. He expressed a deep commitment to Liberia, stating, “We feel comfortable to be in Liberia; we feel Liberian, if I can say that.”
AML has been vital in transforming Liberia’s mining sector, positioning it as a key supplier of iron ore. With a focus on responsible mining, the company provides high-quality iron ore for global markets while adhering to community development practices. The management stated, “Our mining business is crucial to our growth and decarbonization strategy.”
Plans for 2025 include commissioning a concentrator and optimizing the railway to facilitate the transportation of 20 million tons of iron ore annually. Van Der Merwe stressed the need for ongoing railway maintenance to ensure efficient iron ore transport. Further expansion details are expected in the future.
The Phase II Expansion will involve upgrading mining operations, the concentrator, railway improvements, and enhancements to the Buchanan port facilities. Van Der Merwe announced an $800 million investment for railway upgrades, including rail replacement, which is projected to create over 5,000 jobs during construction and 1,200 permanent positions.
Founded in 2005, ArcelorMittal Liberia has played a crucial role in revitalizing the post-conflict mining sector. The company has invested heavily in restoring damaged infrastructure, particularly the Buchanan-Yekepa railway, enabling Liberia to become a significant player in the iron ore industry.
CEO Michiel Van Der Merwe, who has over 25 years of mining industry experience, has been proactive in advancing AML’s investment in Liberia, which includes the construction of a modern iron ore processing plant to enhance export value. This expansion is forecasted to strengthen Liberia’s position in global markets while benefiting local employment.
AML’s investment will have noteworthy economic impacts, such as creating 1,000 permanent jobs and 2,000 temporary jobs, alongside over 5,300 indirect jobs. Revenue for the government is expected to rise from $35M to $75M annually, contributing to Liberia’s economic landscape.
Another key feature of the expansion involves upgrading Liberia’s 243-kilometer railway to U.S. standards, allowing for five daily ore wagon trains with enhanced infrastructure, including new locomotives and wagons. The Rail Authority will enforce the government’s Rail System Operating Principles to ensure fair operation standards.
Education and training are also pivotal in AML’s approach, investing $7M into a tuition-free Vocational Training Centre, which offers internationally recognized qualifications. Over 1,000 children benefit from the AML School System, and numerous scholarships support university students in geosciences and engineering.
AML’s Phase II Expansion represents a significant advancement in responsible mining practices in West Africa. The first shipment of iron ore under this project is scheduled for 2025, underlining the company’s commitment to driving economic growth and sustainable development in Liberia.
The $2 billion Phase II Expansion Project by ArcelorMittal Liberia marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to boosting iron ore production and creating jobs. The investment will not only improve infrastructure but also enhance Liberia’s position in the global mining market, concurrent with community development efforts. The planned initiatives reflect a long-term strategy for sustainability and economic growth in Liberia as the nation prepares for its role as a major iron ore supplier.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
