Monrovia, Liberia – As ArcelorMittal Liberia marks its 20th anniversary, a long-serving employee is highlighting the company’s significant role in reviving Liberia’s railway, a vital national asset.
James Gibson, the first employee hired by ArcelorMittal Liberia, has commended the company for its crucial efforts in restoring and maintaining the rail system, which had been on the brink of collapse before its intervention.
Attending the anniversary celebration, Gibson reflected on the company’s early struggles and its journey to becoming a dominant force in Liberia’s mining industry. “This was a monumental undertaking,” he recalled, reminiscing about the initial challenges. “When we started ArcelorMittal at room number 160 in the Mamba Point Hotel, it was John White, Rashe Guen, his wife, and me. That’s where it all began.”
Gibson recounted the company’s efforts in reviving the railway, a critical component of its operations. “We inspected the railroad, walking all the way to St. John Bridge before turning back. We had to convince the Liberian government that securing railway ballots locally wasn’t feasible, despite misconceptions that it was simply about breaking rocks.”
His advocacy proved instrumental in obtaining essential materials for railway repairs. “I persuaded members of the House of Representatives and convinced Gyude Bryant—may he rest in peace—before we were granted permission to bring in ballots for the railroad’s restoration,” he explained.
Gibson also underscored ArcelorMittal’s pivotal role in preserving the rail infrastructure. “People talk about the railroad, but if it weren’t for ArcelorMittal, there wouldn’t be one today. It was being looted.”
Reflecting on the company’s accomplishments, he expressed immense pride: “When I see ArcelorMittal, I say, ‘That’s my company.’” His words exemplify the deep commitment and sense of ownership that have shaped ArcelorMittal Liberia’s success over the past two decades.
As the company celebrates this milestone, it continues to reflect on its impact on Liberia’s development. Over the years, ArcelorMittal Liberia has invested billions into the national economy, transforming the mining sector and creating thousands of jobs. Its Phase Two expansion project aims to boost iron ore production, further strengthening the country’s mining industry. This expansion includes constructing new processing plants, additional rail infrastructure, and upgrading port facilities in Buchanan to increase exports and national revenue.
Beyond mining, ArcelorMittal Liberia remains committed to community development, offering employment, training programs, and investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to improve local livelihoods.
The company’s investments in rail infrastructure have significantly enhanced Liberia’s logistical capabilities. Through extensive rehabilitation and expansion, it has modernized the transport system, ensuring the efficient movement of iron ore. Additionally, ArcelorMittal has expressed openness to allowing other companies access to the railway, promoting economic collaboration and industrial growth.
As it looks to the future, ArcelorMittal Liberia reaffirms its long-term commitment to the country’s economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development, ensuring its positive impact continues for generations to come.
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