IPNEWS: Sanniquellie, Nimba County – The Managing Director of Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA), Mr. B. Ellas Shoniyin, has called on Nimbaians and all Liberians to adopt positive engagement with mining companies operating in their communities.
Speaking at a two-day stakeholder engagement event focused on resolving conflicts in the ArcelorMittal- Liberia concession area, Shoniyin appealed for peace and cooperation instead of violence, which has driven investors away from Liberia over the past seven years.
Addressing community leaders, youth, and other stakeholders, Mr. Shoniyin emphasized that peaceful collaboration between affected communities and mining companies like ArcelorMittal Liberia is essential for sustainable development and attracting new investors.
“Violence and destructive behavior are counterproductive,” Shoniyin said.
“They drive away investors and harm the country’s growth potential. We must set aside negative attitudes and work towards peaceful coexistence and mutual benefit.
“He pointed out that Liberia has lagged behind neighboring countries, such as Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone, which continue to attract more investors due to stable and peaceful environments.
Since former President George Weah’s administration began seven years ago, Liberia has yet to welcome new investors in significant numbers largely due to ongoing conflicts and unrest surrounding mining operations. Mr. Shoniyin urged community leaders to play an active role in resolving disputes peacefully rather than escalating tensions or encouraging violence.
“Leaders should be problem solvers. When communities call on them, they must respond with dialogue and understanding instead of fanning conflict,” he said.
Positive Impact of ArcelorMittal Liberia in Nimba County Mr. Shoniyin revealed encouraging statistics about ArcelorMittal Liberia’s contribution to local employment.
Out of the more than 5,000 Liberians employed by the company, about 30 percent are from Nimba County. This employment not only supports workers but also positively impacts their families and entire communities by improving livelihoods.
In Gbapa Town, one of the communities most affected by mining operations, local resident Ma Betty K. Gono expressed appreciation for the mining company’s efforts to increase community participation.
She highlighted that through sustained engagements facilitated by the ADMA team, including meetings with chiefs and community leaders, more residents are now involved in the operations, creating hope for improved community relations and economic benefits.
“This collaboration is a step forward,” Gono said, “as it brings the communities and the mining company together to work for the betterment of the county and the whole country.
“About Nimba Education Guide the two-day stakeholder engagement event was organized by Nimba Education Guide, a local non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting education, social cohesion, and peace building in Nimba County.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Armstrong Gobac Selekpoh, the organization brings together a wide range of community members including youth, women leaders, and traditional authorities from all 19 administrative districts of the county.
Nimba Education Guide’s mission is to foster informed dialogue and peaceful resolutions to conflicts, particularly those impacting key economic sectors like mining.
By advocating for peaceful coexistence between communities and mining companies, the organization aims to create a more stable environment conducive to sustainable development and investment. Mr. Selekpoh explained that the large turnout for the event, which included a diverse cross-section of society, demonstrated a shared commitment to overcoming violence.
“Our goal is to replace conflict with cooperation so that ArcelorMittal Liberia and other companies can operate successfully and help build a prosperous future for Nimba County and Liberia at large,” he said.
Encouraging Peaceful Engagement for Liberia’s Future Mr. Shoniyin concluded by reiterating the critical need for peaceful engagement among community members, leaders, and companies.
He stressed that this approach could unlock Liberia’s potential to attract new investors, create jobs, and stimulate local economies.
“Peace is the foundation for progress,” he said. “By working together calmly and constructively, Liberians can reclaim trust, foster partnerships, and build a brighter, more prosperous future for all. By D Franklin Doloquee, doloqueefranklin@frontpageafrica.com.com.
