ArcelorMittal Liberia celebrates its 20th anniversary with a $2 billion Phase II Expansion Project, aiming to triple iron ore production and create significant employment opportunities. The project includes major infrastructure upgrades, such as investing $800 million in the railway system, and highlights AML’s commitment to responsible mining and community development.
ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) is commemorating its 20th anniversary with the launch of a $2 billion Phase II Expansion Project, which aims to enhance iron ore production significantly. The initiative will see production increase from 5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 15 MTPA, with 75% of the output being a blended product. This expansion includes substantial upgrades to infrastructure, particularly an $800 million investment in the heavy-haul railway system.
During a celebratory event in Monrovia, Chief Executive Officer Michiel Van Der Merwe emphasized the significance of 2025 for the company’s operations in Liberia. He expressed a sense of belonging, stating, “We feel comfortable to be in Liberia; we feel Liberian, if I can say that.”
AML’s two-decade presence has been crucial in establishing Liberia as a prominent iron ore supplier globally. The company adheres to responsible mining practices, community development, and workforce capacity building. The management highlighted that their operations deliver high-quality iron ore necessary to enhance supply security across ArcelorMittal’s steel plants and global markets.
Future plans include commissioning a concentrator, vital for recouping past investments, and optimizing the railway system from Yekepa to Buchanan to transport 20 million tons of iron ore annually. Additionally, the expansion is expected to generate approximately 5,000 jobs during construction and provide 1,200 permanent positions for Liberians.
Having been created in 2005, AML has played a pivotal role in revitalizing Liberia’s post-conflict mining sector, investing heavily in reconstructing the Buchanan-Yekepa railway, previously damaged during civil unrest. This strategic investment positions Liberia as a key regional player in the iron ore industry.
The leadership of Van Der Merwe, appointed CEO in June 2024, promises continued investment, including a modern iron ore processing plant in Zolowee Town, further solidifying Liberia’s presence in international markets. This expansion is anticipated to create economic opportunities and enhance infrastructure development significantly.
AML currently stands as Liberia’s largest private employer, offering over 2,100 direct jobs and contributing $2.5 billion in investments to date. The upcoming expansion raises expectations for an increase in permanent jobs to 1,000, alongside an upsurge of 2,000 temporary construction roles and 5,300 indirect positions.
Crucially, the expansion incorporates modernization measures for the 243-kilometer railway to accommodate five ore wagon trains, which reflect U.S. standards and global best practices. Moreover, new operating principles ensure transparency and non-discriminatory rail operations, vital for enhancing logistics.
In addition to infrastructural advancements, AML prioritizes education and workforce development, having invested $7 million in a Vocational Training Centre that offers tuition-free programs. The company actively engages in community scholarships and education for Liberian children, thus supporting local educational initiatives while nurturing future talent for its workforce.
Overall, AML’s Phase II Expansion reflects a major milestone in responsible mining, promising substantial economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development in Liberia. With iron ore shipments anticipated to commence in 2025, the company’s commitment to Liberia’s future remains firm, marking an era of resilience and growth in the nation’s mining sector.
In conclusion, ArcelorMittal Liberia’s 20th anniversary and the announcement of its $2 billion Phase II Expansion Project represent a substantial commitment to the economic growth of Liberia. This expansion is expected to increase iron ore production, create tens of thousands of jobs, and modernize crucial infrastructure. AML’s sustained investments in community education and workforce development further underscore its dedication to responsible mining and long-term development in the region.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
