By: Aaron Kubahn Email:aaronkubahn2015@gmail.com CELL: 0888832186/0776049985
Monrovia, Liberia – ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Chief Executive Officer, Michiel Van Der Merwe, has emphasized his company’s unwavering commitment to expansion and community development as AML celebrates its 20th anniversary and gear up for its phase two project.
In his inaugural appearance on OK FM, Van Der Merwe shared insights into the company’s ongoing projects and outlined future plans aimed at driving growth and contributing to Liberia’s development.
During the interview, he emphasized the company’s deep-rooted connection to Liberia, stating, “We’ve been here for many years. We feel comfortable to be in Liberia; we feel Liberian, if I can say that.” He highlighted the commissioning of the concentrator as a pivotal step, noting the necessity of achieving a return on investment for the infrastructure established over the past two decades. He underscored the scale of operations, mentioning the goal to “rail 20 million tons per annum,” which necessitates the efficient use of the railway stretching from Yekepa to Buchanan.
The CEO also addressed the importance of maintaining the railway infrastructure, emphasizing continuous maintenance, safety, and logistical optimization to ensure the seamless transportation of iron ore to the port. He hinted at future expansion plans, suggesting that further details would be shared in subsequent discussions.
Reflecting on the company’s Phase Two Expansion, Van Der Merwe described it as a comprehensive initiative encompassing mining operations, concentrator development, and significant upgrades to both the 250-kilometer railway, known as the Buchanan corridor, and the port facilities. He noted that over the past few years, approximately $800 million has been invested in enhancing the railway infrastructure, including the replacement of sleepers, ballast, and rails, as well as the creation of sidings to facilitate efficient transportation. These efforts aim to ensure that ArcelorMittal Liberia can effectively move its product from Yekepa to the port of Buchanan.
The expansion is also expected to have a substantial economic impact, with the creation of over 5,000 jobs during the construction phase and approximately 1,200 permanent positions for Liberians upon completion.
ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Legacy and Future Plans
Established in 2005, ArcelorMittal Liberia has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the country’s mining sector post-conflict. The company’s investments have been instrumental in restoring critical infrastructure, including the 243-kilometer Buchanan-Yekepa railway, which was inoperable following Liberia’s civil conflict. These efforts have positioned Liberia as a key player in the regional iron ore industry.
In June 2024, ArcelorMittal Liberia appointed Michiel Van Der Merwe as its new CEO, effective July 1, 2024. Van Der Merwe, a seasoned mining executive with over 25 years of industry experience, holds a Bachelor of Engineering in extractive metallurgy from the University of Pretoria. His extensive background includes significant roles at AngloGold Ashanti, where he advanced from senior plant metallurgist to metallurgical engineer by 1999.
Under Van Der Merwe’s leadership, the company continues to focus on its Phase Two Expansion, which includes the construction of a modern iron ore processing plant in Zolowee Town, Nimba County. This facility aims to add value to Liberia’s iron ore before export, enhancing the country’s position in global markets. The expansion also encompasses major upgrades to the Yekepa-Buchanan railway and Buchanan Port, promising to create thousands of jobs and strengthen Liberia’s economy.
ArcelorMittal Liberia’s commitment to the nation’s development extends beyond infrastructure and employment. The company has been actively involved in community development initiatives, including educational scholarships and festive celebrations. For instance, during the 2024 holiday season, ArcelorMittal Liberia organized events that brought joy to communities across its concession areas, reflecting its dedication to corporate social responsibility.
As ArcelorMittal Liberia commemorates two decades of operation, the company reiterates its dedication to contributing to Liberia’s socio-economic growth through sustainable mining practices, infrastructure development, and community engagement.
