Africa-Press – Liberia. Liberia’s Lands and Mines Minister-designate, Matenokay Tingban, says he does not claim to have an immediate solution to the challenges in Liberia’s mining sector.
Speaking during his confirmation hearing on Thursday, November 13, Mr. Tingban stated that if confirmed, he and his team will approach these challenges with immediate commitment and a results-driven focus, prioritizing Liberia’s interests and engaging stakeholders and mine agencies to implement policy and promote sustainable development.
The hearing was attended by Tingban and his two deputies, each of whom was given the opportunity to speak from a prepared text before being grilled by Senators.
Meanwhile, outlining the Ministry’s role and responsibilities, he disclosed that it plays a central role in the country’s national development agenda, serving as the custodian of the country’s mineral wealth and the authority for providing strategic policy direction in both sectors.
He further pointed out that the Ministry’s function extends beyond providing regulations, as Liberia’s natural resources contribute to the revenue growth, create jobs, promote community development, and strengthen economic stability.
According to him, to achieve this, he will prioritize strategic planning, sector coordination, operational efficiency, transparency, and adherence to International best practices.
” I acknowledge that the sector faces significant challenges and is highly complex. While I don’t claim to have an immediate solution to every issue or problem. If confirmed, my team and I will approach these challenges with immediate commitment and result-driven focus, prioritizing Liberia’s interest and engaging stakeholders and mine agencies to implement policy and promote sustainable development.” He stated.
Mr. Tingban further indicated that Liberia’s mineral and energy sector is a major driver of national development, economic growth, and social inclusion.
He added that, if confirmed, his leadership will focus on leveraging this sector to maximize revenue, create jobs, enhance community development through active participation, and attract responsible foreign private direct investment.
” This strategy is built on three pillars: efficiencies, transparency, and inclusive growth. Each Pillar is designed to address immediate challenges while fostering long-term solutions for sustainable development. Liberia Mineral has, despite the goal, diamond and other critical minerals. However, challenges such as illicit mining, limited value addition, regulatory gaps, and the lack of community benefits continue to hinder the sector. Our goals are to harness this and ensure our people benefit,” he concluded.
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