By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Margibi County – ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has officially dedicated the newly rehabilitated 28-kilometer Firestone to Kakata road, marking a major milestone in the company’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure and community development in Liberia.
The road, which connects the bustling city of Kakata to the historic Firestone Club House on Harbel Hill, was completed at a cost of more than $500,000.
Work began in May 2025 under AML’s Community Development Fund and was executed by Liberian-owned firm FREBENJA Construction, with oversight from the Ministry of Public Works and AML engineers. FREBENJA will also maintain the road for the next six months.
At Monday’s dedication ceremony, AML’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, Marcus Wleh, praised the project as a powerful example of public-private partnership and responsible corporate citizenship.
“This half-million-dollar road rehabilitation project is just one example of what can happen when a company commits to doing the right thing for its host communities,” Wleh said on behalf of AML’s CEO. “We did it not because ArcelorMittal has a lot of money, but because we understand it is our responsibility.”
Representative Elleh A. Artoh-Wreh of Margibi District #1 described the development as “transformational,” emphasizing its role in improving access to Grand Bassa County, a key corridor for trade and mobility.
“When companies in Liberia understand their role in national development, we must appreciate them and continue to engage them,” she stated.
Margibi County Superintendent O.J. Morris also commended the initiative, saying it aligns with the Liberian government’s national agenda to enhance road connectivity.
This project is part of AML’s broader development work across Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa Counties, where the company supports public education, vocational training, healthcare, infrastructure, and livelihood initiatives.
AML also contributes millions annually to the County Social Development Fund, and its new Community Development Fund aims to channel resources more directly to mining-affected communities.
Since beginning operations in 2006, AML has invested heavily in building stronger, healthier, and more self-reliant communities—an impact visibly celebrated during the dedication of the Firestone–Kakata road.
