Africa-Press – Liberia. ArcelorMittal Liberia has officially dedicated the newly rehabilitated Firestone to Kakata road in Margibi County, marking another milestone in the company’s broader commitment to community development across Liberia.
The 28-kilometer stretch, connecting the bustling city of Kakata to the historic Firestone Club House on Harbel Hill, was completed at a cost of more than $500,000. The project, which began in May this year, was implemented under ArcelorMittal’s Community Development Fund and executed by Liberian-owned construction firm FREBENJA, with oversight from the Ministry of Public Works and AML engineers. FREBENJA is also responsible for maintaining the road for the next six months.
Speaking at the dedication ceremony in Kakata on Monday, ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, Marcus Wleh, described the project as a powerful example of how public-private partnerships can drive real change. Representing the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Wleh emphasized that the project reflects AML’s strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and its long-term partnership with local communities.
“To the good people of this district and the public, AML wants to officially thank you for your support and patience,” he said. “This half-million-dollar road rehabilitation project is just one example of what can happen when a company commits to doing the right thing for its host communities. We did it not because ArcelorMittal has a lot of money, but because we understand it is our responsibility.”
The dedication ceremony drew praise from several government and community leaders. Representative Elleh A. Artoh-Wreh of Margibi District #1 lauded ArcelorMittal for undertaking what she described as a “transformational development.” She noted that the road not only links Kakata to Firestone but also creates easier access to Buchanan in Grand Bassa County, which is vital for trade and mobility.
“This road is very important, and today we are celebrating because of what AML has done,” she said. “When companies in Liberia understand their role in national development, we must appreciate them and continue to engage them.”
Margibi County Superintendent O.J. Morris echoed similar sentiments, pointing out that the project supports the Liberian government’s national agenda to improve road connectivity throughout the country.
This initiative is part of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s broader approach to community development, which is a central pillar of its operations in the country. In counties like Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa, the company has made major investments in education by supporting public schools and operating a vocational training center where young Liberians are gaining hands-on experience in fields like mechanics and electrical trades.
The company also runs hospitals and clinics that provide healthcare to thousands of community members each year, and it has contributed to the construction and rehabilitation of roads, markets, and clean water systems. Additionally, ArcelorMittal has supported livelihood programs for farmers and small businesses, including training and compensation.
Since 2006, AML has contributed millions of dollars to the County Social Development Fund and recently launched a new Community Development Fund to channel resources more directly to communities affected by its mining operations.
These efforts are helping to build stronger, healthier, and more self-reliant communities across Liberian impact that was clearly felt and celebrated during the dedication of the Firestone to Kakata road.
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