Yekepa, Nimba County – This month’s formal commissioning of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s cutting-edge iron ore concentrator in Tokadeh has grown beyond a mere ceremonial occasion to mark a significant turning point in the country’s path toward industrial revival, job creation, and long-term economic transformation.
Although West Africa’s first iron ore concentrator was completed on Thursday, the larger importance of the dedication is found in the ongoing investment and developmental impact of AML’s $2 billion Phase II expansion. By the end of 2025, Liberia is expected to quadruple its iron ore output to 20 million tonnes per year, making it a major supplier of high-grade magnetite concentrate to the world market.
The new concentrator produces premium concentrate with a 66 percent iron concentration from lower-grade hematite ore. This improvement in technology does not only increases Liberia’s export value but also guarantees that a larger portion of beneficiation occurs domestically, generating additional value and boosting capacity.
There is much more to the Phase II expansion than just the concentrator. It involves significant improvements to Liberia’s strategic infrastructure. A main crusher, an overland conveyor system, and additional ore pits have been erected at the mining center of Tokadeh. Now in place are necessary infrastructures that adhere to international safety and environmental regulations, such as process water systems, power supplies, and tailings storage.
The overhaul of the 243-kilometer Yekepa-to-Buchanan railway is one of the most noticeable changes. With significant track design changes and additional passing loops at strategic intersections, more than 440,000 new sleepers have been laid. In order to facilitate continuing operations, AML has also built a new maintenance plant in Buchanan and purchased 700 carriages and 16 locomotives.
Dredging, berth extensions, and a high-capacity automated shiploader at Buchanan Port have made it possible to load Panamax ships at up to 8,000 tonnes per hour. Modern port control and safety systems, as well as improved material handling equipment, round out these advancements.
There are significant social and economic benefits to the growth. During the building phase, more than 3,000 Liberians were directly employed, and thousands more were involved in indirect employment and local contracting. Liberians will have more job opportunities in mining, logistics, and port services as activities continue to expand.
AML is making significant investments in technical training programs to provide young Liberians the mechanical, electrical, and operational skills they need to pursue long-term careers in mining. The company’s overarching objective of creating a trained national workforce capable of propelling and maintaining industrial development is in line with these initiatives.
AML contributes to the social infrastructure of host communities in addition to jobs. In the counties of Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa, the firm has made investments in housing, medical facilities, schools, and road networks. AML is carrying out initiatives to enhance living conditions, advance education, and facilitate access to healthcare in collaboration with local governments and development partners.
AML is still the biggest private taxpayer in Liberia with to an increased tax base and rising royalties. The Phase II expansion’s economic impact is anticipated to greatly increase government income, allowing for more public investment in national development goals.
This year marks 20 years since AML signed its Mineral Development Agreement with the Government of Liberia. From restarting mining operations post-war to now delivering high-grade processed ore, the company’s journey reflects resilience, commitment, and strategic partnership with the Liberian people.
Later this year, the first shipment of high-grade iron ore from the new concentrator is anticipated, signaling the beginning of a new era for AML. The growth is more than just a mining success; it is a national industrial revolution that holds up the prospect of riches for everybody.
The effects of this ongoing investment are already being seen as Liberia repositions itself on the world mining scene. These include improved lives, increased earnings, stronger infrastructure, and a resurgence of investor confidence. The message is unmistakable: Liberia is prepared to lead, not just welcome business.
