By: Karino Teah
Butaw District, Sinoe County – In a move hailed as a milestone for local development, Liberia Mineral Export Inc. (LMEI) has signed a significant five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with residents of Butaw District, specifically the seaside communities of Geekloh and Gbenkloh.
The agreement aims to enhance living conditions and promote sustainable development in the region.
The signing ceremony, held at the Butaw Compound Youth Center, was well-attended by enthusiastic community members, elders, and local leaders who welcomed the initiative as a much-needed step toward improving education, healthcare, and employment opportunities in their area.
Under the terms of the MOU—which includes an option for renewal—LMEI has committed to several key community development projects.
These include the construction of a school and a clinic, the provision of scholarships for local students, and the creation of employment opportunities for residents.
In addition, a land rental fee totaling $30,000 over the MOU period will be paid directly to the communities.
Speaking during the ceremony, community leaders expressed deep appreciation for the agreement, describing it as a hopeful beginning for the people of Butaw.
“We see this as a positive step forward,” one elder remarked. “This agreement shows that development can come when communities and companies work together with respect and transparency.”
Representing LMEI, a company spokesperson reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to upholding the agreement in full, emphasizing the importance of building a lasting, respectful relationship with the seaside communities.
“This MOU reflects our genuine commitment to the people of Butaw,” the representative said. “We are not just here to operate—we are here to partner and grow together with the community.”
Both parties expressed optimism that the partnership will result in tangible improvements in health services, education, and livelihoods, setting a new standard for corporate-community engagement in the mining sector.
