Monrovia, Liberia – ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) is placing more focus on the connection between its operations and the well-being of the community. AML Chief Executive Officer Michiel Van Der Merwe emphasized that safety cannot be achieved in isolation. The CEO spoke to the personnel at his first town hall meeting in 2026 after receiving quarterly briefings from the departments of Mines, Safety, Sustainability and External Relations, Environmental, Human Resources and Organizational Development, and Quality of Life.
Van Der Merwe emphasized that the state of the communities surrounding AML’s employees has a direct impact on their performance and stability. While workers have steady work and income, he pointed out that locals might not have the same opportunities or security. He pushed the company to close that gap by making sure locals felt appreciated and included.
“Joy should flow among AML’s neighbours as well as among those who are privileged to work,” he stated. “We will only be able to work here safely in this manner.”
Marcus S. Wleh, Head of Sustainability and External Relations, stated that the department has been given a sizeable budget for community investment, which supports this trend. He pledged that the money would be handled sensibly and that every dollar would be utilized to improve the local community.
Van Der Merwe also spoke on workplace safety, urging workers to raise awareness of safety issues outside of AML locations, particularly those in safety roles and those who interact directly with communities. He emphasised the significance of teaching locals along the company’s train route about the risks connected with railway operations, citing a recent event in Grand Bassa County.
He also stressed that safety should be viewed as a deeply rooted culture that all employees share rather than just a formal goal or corporate obligation. He reiterated that no amount of money can match the worth of human life or the consequences of workplace injuries, even though AML continues to invest millions of dollars in ensuring safe operations.
A strong commitment to incorporating safety and community relations into the company’s daily operations was at the center of the CEO’s speech. He noted that AML understands that trust, inclusivity, and shared understanding with host communities are just as important to sustained safety performance as internal systems and procedures.
The company aims to create an environment where residents and employees feel connected, safe, and respected by investing in community development, supporting outreach programs, and promoting safety education outside of its staff. This approach reflects AML’s belief that long-term operational success requires improvements in both community well-being and workplace safety.
Van Der Merwe urged all staff members, regardless of their positions, to work more efficiently and with greater focus, pointing out that discipline and teamwork will help create a better future for everyone involved in AML’s operations.
