More Jobs for Liberians Mean More Growth, More Taxes, and a Stronger Economy.
Monrovia, Liberia – 127 contractors have been transitioned to full-time employees by ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML), marking a major advancement in local employment. As it continues its ambitious expansion, this move is viewed as the company’s commitment to economic stability and job creation. With a new Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) expected to be passed, AML is setting itself up to create even more jobs as mining operations expand.
Many of the recently confirmed employees, who are mostly from mining communities in Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa, consider this to be a life-changing opportunity. Economic empowerment depends on stable employment because it entails consistent income, long-term job security, and improved benefits.
One of the newly employed full-time staff members, Melvina Sonah, calls the shift “transformational.” For me, heaven has now arrived on earth. I can now support my family, cover my tuition, and buy food. It’s a great relief,” she said. Her experience is representative of the wider effects that AML’s employment programs have on communities and families in Liberia.
After the new MDA is approved, AML anticipates further employment creation after this milestone. Increased output, improved infrastructure, and expanded mining operations all of which call for a greater workforce are anticipated outcomes of the pact. AML has reiterated its dedication to giving Liberians preference during the employment process, guaranteeing that local talent continues to be at the forefront of the business’ expansion.
Attorney Patience Jordan Kargbah, AML’s Human Resources Business Partner, highlighted the long-term vision for workforce expansion. “As production increases and we maintain high safety and operational standards, we expect to transition even more contractors into permanent positions. The passage of the new MDA will be a game-changer for job creation in Liberia,” she stated.
High unemployment has long been a problem in Liberia, and several administrations have tried, with varying degrees of success, to solve it. Large-scale work prospects are mostly driven by private sector investment, even if government policies, infrastructural development, and educational reforms are important factors in promoting job creation.
AML’s effort shows the vital role foreign investors play in solving Liberia’s unemployment challenge. Businesses like AML contribute to economic stability in ways that government initiatives alone cannot by bringing in money, building infrastructure, and generating skilled employment. In addition to improving their standard of living, the 127 workers’ move to full-time employment boosts the economy in other areas, such as small enterprises and transportation.
In the past, the government has been primarily responsible for resolving Liberia’s unemployment issue. However, strategic collaborations between the public and private sectors are necessary to provide lasting employment solutions. Once approved, the new MDA will allow AML to make more investments, resulting in more job openings and less demand on the government to directly create jobs.
According to economic analysts, halting the cycle of underemployment and unemployment requires consistent investment in vital sectors like manufacturing, mining, and agriculture. “In order to lower unemployment in Liberia, foreign direct investment is essential. In addition to creating jobs, businesses like AML that grow and hire additional Liberians also contribute to the stimulation of other industries,” according to a Monrovia-based economic consultant.
Stable employment has far-reaching economic advantages for more than just individual employees. Families may raise the level of life by paying for better housing, healthcare, and education when they have a steady income. Furthermore, increased purchasing power in local areas supports small enterprises and fosters entrepreneurship, which results in the development of more jobs.
The growth of AML provides a model for how economic development may be fueled by initiatives driven by the private sector. Even more Liberians expect to gain from steady job prospects if the company expands and the planned MDA is authorized. This development will support Liberia’s long-term economic resilience while assisting in addressing one of the country’s most urgent issues, “the creation of jobs.”
The way forward is obvious, Liberia’s employment growth depends on private sector investment backed by sound government policy. The most recent change in employment at AML shows that significant advancement is possible with the correct funding, alliances, and regulations. Together with the new MDA’s expected approval, the company’s ongoing expansion signals a better future for jobs in Liberia.
