—Donate vehicles, generators to LAA, LNP
IPNEWS: Late November 2023, report emerged how Ghanian businessman Ibrahim Mahama, CEO of Engineers & Planners Limited, sought to buy the Solway Mining Limited in Liberia with suspected support from Russians through its Embassy in Accra, Ghana.
Controversy arose over the deal after reports suggested that HPX, initially known for its acquisition of the Nimba Mount project in Guinean, attempted to assert its relevance in Liberia by allegedly pursuing an acquisition of Solway Mining Incorporated, despite its lack of any footprint in the sector in Liberia.
The report details that at the center of the controversy lies a complex web of connections involving HPX, influential figures like Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, brother of former Ghanaian President John Mahama, and a faction of disgruntled Russians from the former Putu Mining in Grand Gedeh County.
It is alleged that HPX is leveraging these ties to manipulate Liberian laws and engineer the acquisition of Solway Mining, which has been trying to take control of the Blei and Delton deposits that is within the ArcelorMittal Liberia concessional area.
Mr. Ibrahim Mahama’s frequent visits to Liberia and engagements with high-ranking government officials have fueled suspicions of a concerted effort to secure control over Solway Mining. Central to the controversy is the disputed ownership of Solway Mining, with conflicting narratives surrounding its incorporation and subsequent amendments.
In May 2024, local communities within ArcelorMittal Liberia concession allegedly backed by Solway Mining CEO Boima Morgan mobilized to oust staff and stop mining operations of AML area amidst raising ethical and legal concerns.
Now, Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama, CEO of Engineers & Planners Limited, is backed in Monrovia stating he is here to boost Liberia’s infrastructure and security capabilities by the donation of 20 police vehicles and three 1,200 KVA electricity generators to the Liberia Airport Authority.
The presentation took place this morning in Monrovia, attended by Liberian President His Excellency Joseph Boakai and Vice President His Excellency Jeremiah Koung.
This generous contribution according to associates of Mr. Mahama is expected to enhance the operational efficiency and security at the Roberts International Airport in Monrovia, Liberia’s primary international gateway.
The 20 police vehicles will bolster the airport’s security force, while the high-capacity generators will ensure a reliable power supply, critical for airport operations.
During the ceremony, President Boakai expressed his profound gratitude to Mr Mahama, a brother of the former President of the Republic of Ghana and flagbearer for the 2024 general elections, Mr John Dramani Mahama for his philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of such contributions to the nation’s development. “This donation will significantly improve our airport’s capabilities, ensuring the safety and comfort of travelers and boosting our overall infrastructure,” President Boakai stated.
Vice President Koung, on his part, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Liberia.
“This act of generosity from Mr Ibrahim Mahama is a testament to the strong bond between our two nations. We are deeply appreciative of his support and commitment to Liberia’s progress,” Koung said.
Mr Ibrahim Mahama, known for his philanthropic endeavors across Africa, reiterated his commitment to supporting infrastructure and development projects that have a tangible impact on local communities.
“I am honored to contribute to Liberia’s growth and development.
“Strong infrastructure is the backbone of any thriving economy, and I believe these vehicles and generators will play a crucial role in enhancing the airport’s operations,” Mahama remarked.
In all this, political observers a wondering why a one man would seeks to provide such huge support to Liberia when there are huge security challenges in Ghana.
The donation comes weeks off a controversial 285 yellow machines and earth-moving equipment provided by an unknown source according president Joseph N. Boakai. Investigation continues.
In October 2023, report emerged that the government of Liberia had revoked the mining license of Solway Mining granting ArcelorMittal the right for a possible annexation.
Recent developments in Liberia’s mining sector starting with the visits of both HPX and ArcelorMittal owners to Liberia have raised eyebrows and sparked stakeholder concerns especially over the conduct of High-Power Exploration (HPX) which recently signed a letter of intent with the Government of Liberia to invest up to $5 billion, for among others, construction of a railway from Guinea to Buchana Port.
