NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – Two female employees of ArcelorMittal Liberia are challenging long-standing gender stereotypes in Liberia’s mining sector as they excel in roles traditionally dominated by men.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Kebbeh Harris Dolo and Massa Senesie currently serve as Wheel Loader Operators in the company’s mining operations, where they operate heavy-duty equipment used to load materials onto trains and carry out clearing activities.
Their work reflects a growing shift toward greater female participation in technical and operational positions within Liberia’s mining industry.
Kebbeh joined AML as a full employee on November 4, 2025, after years of working with subcontractor companies in similar capacities. She said becoming a direct employee of ArcelorMittal Liberia had long been a personal dream because of the company’s reputation for professional development and career opportunities.
“I find joy in working with ArcelorMittal. Since joining the company, there has been great joy in my life,” Kebbeh said, praising AML for its employee training programs and workplace support.
Although she previously had some experience operating heavy equipment, Kebbeh explained that AML’s extensive training programs gave her the confidence and technical preparation needed to fully perform her duties.
She described her role as deeply fulfilling and expressed hope of remaining with the company until retirement.
Beyond job security, Kebbeh said her passion for heavy equipment operation motivates her to remain disciplined, follow safety regulations, and perform her duties professionally.
She also encouraged more women to pursue careers in heavy equipment operation, noting that such skills can reduce unemployment and create long-term economic opportunities.
According to her, growing mining, infrastructure, and road construction projects across Liberia will continue to increase demand for skilled operators.
Kebbeh also rejected the perception that employment opportunities at AML depend on personal connections.
“That is not true. When you know the job and can prove your skills, you can be accepted,” she stated, adding that she secured her position based on competence and performance.
Massa Senesie, another operator in AML’s mining operations, joined the company in June 2025 after years of working with subcontractors.
She is trained to operate both the Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) and the wheel loader and described her employment with AML as the fulfillment of a long-standing dream.
“I am very proud to be part of ArcelorMittal. When you work with AML, they train you thoroughly, building your knowledge in both the practical and theoretical aspects of your job,” Massa said.
Like Kebbeh, Massa believes that technical skills and competence are more important than personal connections in securing employment opportunities.
She urged young women to take advantage of training opportunities in high-demand technical fields to improve their chances of employment and financial independence.
ArcelorMittal Liberia says it continues to invest heavily in technical training, mentorship, and skills development programs aimed at building a competent Liberian workforce for the mining sector.
Through the company’s Training Academy and operational training initiatives, hundreds of young Liberians have reportedly gained technical and vocational skills designed to meet international industry standards.
The company has also expanded efforts to promote gender inclusion by increasing opportunities for women in technical and operational roles previously considered nontraditional.
Today, more women are serving as equipment operators, electricians, mechanics, technicians, and artisans within the company.
Supervisor Varlee Kamara praised both women for their professionalism and commitment to safe operations.
“Kebbeh is known for her strong sense of responsibility and consistency,” Kamara said. “Massa brings a calm and steady presence to the team.”
Their stories continue to inspire many young Liberian women to pursue technical careers in the mining industry, demonstrating that determination, discipline, and competence can create opportunities once considered beyond reach for women.
