CAPITOL HILL, MONROVIA – The Liberian Senate on Thursday, January 29, 2026, officially ratified the third amendment to the Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) between the Government of Liberia and ArcelorMittal Liberia, a move that extends the company’s agreement in the country through 2050.
The decision follows a joint report from the House committees on Mines, Investment, and Judiciary, which reviewed the amendment and recommended its approval. According to the report, the approval unlocks a signature bonus of approximately 200 million United States dollars, pending the President’s signature.
While the ratification is being presented as a milestone for long-term investment, key lawmakers abstained from voting, signaling unresolved concerns. Senators Nya Twayen, Crayton Duncan, and Francis Dorpoh all abstained, citing doubts about the agreement’s enforcement and its track record in delivering promised social and economic benefits.
Senator Nya Twayen of Nimba County emphasized that abstaining was not an opposition to investment but a stand for accountability. He pointed to ArcelorMittal Liberia’s documented history of noncompliance with social obligations under the previous agreements, particularly in affected communities.
Despite these abstentions, Gbarpolu County Senator Amara Konneh publicly explained his affirmative vote, framing it as a vote for practical benefits for ordinary Liberians. “Today, I voted ‘YES’ for the Third Amendment to the ArcelorMittal Liberia agreement, prioritizing ordinary Liberians. While not perfect, it’s a significant improvement that offers meaningful opportunities if appropriately implemented,” he wrote.
Senator Konneh highlighted the agreement’s potential to drive local content and enterprise. He noted a six-month deadline to establish a framework that boosts Liberian participation in areas such as security, logistics, catering, and other service sectors, creating opportunities for small and medium enterprises to contribute to national wealth.
The amendment also includes a commitment to increasing Liberian leadership within ArcelorMittal Liberia. According to Konneh, senior management roles are expected to be filled by Liberians within a year, with high-level positions gradually transitioning to local talent over time. He stressed that training, transparency, and reporting will be critical to realizing these goals.
The senator called on affected communities in Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa to expect tangible outcomes, including youth employment, fair opportunities for women, and general local economic growth. He emphasized that disciplined implementation and swift local content action are essential to ensure the benefits reach ordinary Liberians.
Senator Konneh argued that if implemented properly, the agreement could address Liberia’s “bread-and-butter” challenges by putting money directly in the hands of citizens and fostering a strong middle class through local goods and services rather than relying solely on royalties.
The Senate’s ratification now sets the stage for President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s signature, formally enacting the amendment. While the government touts the measure as a boost for long-term investment in the mining sector, lawmakers and community stakeholders will closely monitor its implementation.
