Buchanan and Yekepa – In an effort to encourage Liberian-owned businesses, AML has engaged a number of local contractors to finish significant renovations throughout its concessions area. Baawo Group of Companies, a Buchanan-based construction company that is entirely owned by Liberians, is one of the businesses that stands to gain.
Two housing units in Loops 2 and 3 are undergoing extensive repairs by Baawo Group, which is using dozens of Liberian laborers, both skilled and unskilled.
In addition to offering suitable housing for Liberian employees and their families in Buchanan and Yekepa, ArcelorMittal Liberia’s (AML) continuing home repair project is also fostering employment prospects for regular citizens and opening doors for Liberian-owned enterprises.
ArcelorMittal Liberia has been commended by Michael Baawo, CEO of the Baawo Group of Companies, for giving local businesses priority in its operations. He added that the initiative is a clear indication of the company’s dedication to empowering Liberian entrepreneurs while generating indirect employment opportunities for many.
“The housing renovation project by ArcelorMittal Liberia is not only improving living conditions for its employees, but it is also providing opportunities for Liberian-owned businesses to expand and demonstrate their capabilities, which translates into jobs for regular Liberians, empowerment for local businesses, and economic growth for our communities,” Baawo said.
In addition to ensuring that its employees live in modern, safe housing, the remodeling campaign is a component of AML’s larger investment in employee and community welfare, which also aims to increase local involvement in its value chain. By supporting local initiatives, enhancing capability, and empowering Liberians at various societal levels, AML continues to show its commitment to Liberia’s development through programs like these.
AML is also collaborating with Liberian contractors in Nimba County to rebuild seventy housing units, starting in Area R and moving on to other parts of the township. As part of its efforts to empower the community, AML also asked that the many contractors works with to renovate the housing units make community recruiting a requirement.
This has led to the provision of temporary employment possibilities for scores of young people in communities near the concession zones in Grand Bassa and Nimba counties.
