NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – “Joy must not only be among the people who are privileged to work,” he said, “but should flow among the neighbors of AML. This is the only way we will operate safely here.”
The Chief Executive Officer of ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML), Michiel Van Der Merwe, has stressed the need for stronger ties between the company and surrounding communities, warning that safety cannot be achieved in isolation.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Speaking at his first town hall meeting of 2026, Mr Van Der Merwe addressed staff following departmental presentations from Mines, Safety, Sustainability and External Relations, Environmental, Human Resources and Organizational Development, and Quality of Life, which provided quarterly updates.
He said the success and stability of AML’s workforce are closely linked to the conditions in nearby communities. While employees benefit from stable jobs and income, he noted that many residents living around AML’s operations may not enjoy the same level of opportunity or security.
Mr Van Der Merwe urged the company to bridge this gap by ensuring that community members feel included and valued.
Supporting this approach, AML’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, Marcus S. Wleh, disclosed that the department has received a significant budget to support community investment. He assured that the funds would be used responsibly, with full accountability to ensure they benefit surrounding communities.
The CEO also raised concerns about workplace safety, calling on employees—particularly those in safety roles and those engaging directly with communities—to extend safety awareness beyond company sites.
He referred to a recent incident in Grand Bassa County and emphasised the need to educate residents living along AML’s रेल corridor about the dangers associated with railway operations.
Mr Van Der Merwe said safety must not be treated simply as a corporate requirement, but as a culture embraced by every employee. While the company continues to invest millions of dollars in safety measures, he stressed that no level of spending can outweigh the value of human life or the consequences of workplace injuries.
At the core of his message was AML’s commitment to integrating safety and community relations into its daily operations. He noted that sustainable safety depends not only on internal systems, but also on trust, inclusion, and shared awareness with host communities.
By strengthening outreach efforts and promoting safety education beyond its workforce, AML aims to create an environment where both employees and residents feel secure and connected.
Concluding his address, Mr Van Der Merwe encouraged staff to work with greater focus and discipline, saying collective effort will help build a stronger future for everyone linked to AML’s operations.
