LOCAL NEWS
MIMBA – ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) is strengthening its long-term commitment to community partnership, workforce development and inclusive growth through deeper grassroots engagement, expanded vocational training and growing advocacy for women’s participation in industry.
That commitment was recently demonstrated in Bunadin, Nimba County, where AML dedicated a modern Field Liaison Office designed to strengthen communication and collaboration with host and fenceline communities.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
At the same time, the company’s Training Academy is increasingly emerging as a strategic national asset, preparing young Liberians for industrial careers while broadening opportunities for women in technical and vocational fields.
The newly dedicated Field Liaison Office in Bunadin, Nimba District #8, marks an important step in AML’s community engagement strategy.
Constructed in partnership with the Bunadin community, which provided the land, the facility is intended to improve accessibility, strengthen dialogue and provide a direct platform for addressing community concerns.
Speaking at the dedication ceremony, Eric Swen, Business Partner for Technical Support in AML’s Department of Sustainability and External Relations, said the project reflects the company’s understanding that successful operations depend on mutual respect and community consent.
“This dedication manifests relationship, trust and safety. There is no way AML can exist and operate in Liberia without the consent of the people.”
Mr. Swen said fulfilling the commitment to establish the office demonstrates that trust is built not merely through promises but through delivery.
“Coming with the plan of erecting the office and meeting up with the promise lays the foundation for trust. With trust, the communities and AML can peacefully work together with mutual respect in meeting the needs of both parties.”
He noted that the presence of the office will make it easier for residents to directly engage company representatives, helping reduce communication barriers and improve transparency.
During the event, Mr. Swen also used the occasion to reinforce rail safety awareness, urging residents not to walk, sit or play on railway tracks.
“When people encounter the train, it will not automatically stop and will in the process destroy lives.”
The dedication ceremony was marked by cultural performances, including indigenous gospel songs by elderly women, while community members described the project as a historic development for the district.
Community elders praised AML for what they described as the first field liaison office of its kind in Liberia’s mining sector. They said the facility would help break long-standing barriers in communication between the company and fenceline communities. As a gesture of appreciation, community leaders also presented a token of gratitude to the company.
Prince Yeah, Political Liaison Officer to the Nimba County Superintendent, commended AML for continuing to bring the company closer to the people. He said the office would contribute to a stronger and more productive relationship built on dialogue and cooperation.
Lance Gbagonyon, Manager for Local Government Relations at AML, praised the people of Bunadin and District #8 for their peaceful approach to resolving grievances without disruption. He also acknowledged the role of Zenith Multipurpose Company for completing the project on schedule.
Mr. Gbagonyon further recognized Community Relations Officer Melvin Ziamo for his role in strengthening ties between AML and local communities, noting that the district has recorded fewer protests than several other operational areas.
The Bunadin facility includes a conference room, office space for the Community Relations Officer and accommodation, creating a practical hub for community engagement and coordination.
Peter Davis, AML Engineer Lead, encouraged residents to take ownership of the facility by protecting and maintaining it as a shared community resource.
Meanwhile, Ole Melekay Gwesiah, head of Zenith Multipurpose Company, welcomed the opportunity given to a Liberian company to execute the project.
“As a Liberian company, I feel elated by the trust as the project brings visibility to the output of my company.”
