IPNEWS: In a significant move to foster peace and collaboration, traditional chiefs and elders from Nimba County’s 12 mining-affected towns and villages have vowed to prevent any further citizen demonstrations against ArcelorMittal’s operations.
This pledge was made with the expectation that the global steel and mining giant will address several pressing concerns raised by the local communities.
The resolution, signed and issued during a recent visit by Kleber Silva, Global Executive Vice President and CEO of ArcelorMittal Mining, reflects a renewed commitment to dialogue and cooperation.
Mr. Silva’s meeting with chiefs and elders in the mining town of Yekepa marked a key moment in addressing the longstanding grievances of the community.
“We wish to go on record with a vow that as long as ArcelorMittal is ready to work with us, listen to us, and adequately address our concerns, there will be no reoccurrence of citizen-led demonstrations as we realized in the past,” stated the resolution, signed by Lawrence T. Tokpah, Sr., Secretary General, and approved by Chief Robert Senneah, Chairman of the Chiefs and Traditional Elders Council of Nimba.
During the meeting, the chiefs and leaders raised several issues including high unemployment rate among technically trained youth in the affected areas and a the reported lack of safe drinking water
The also mentioned exclusion from Community Liaison Services and complained that they receive no remuneration for their crisis mitigation efforts as well as delayed resettlement payments
They said there is a need for a form of welfare program for vulnerable groups, including the physically challenged, single parents, widows, and widowers while at the same time asking AML to upgrade its Yekepa Hospital and to restore its status as a referral center.
Mr. Silva acknowledged the legitimacy of these concerns and explained that some issues had not been addressed due to various global challenges, including the Ebola outbreak.
However, he emphasized the company’s willingness to work closely with the affected communities to find lasting solutions.
The chiefs expressed their surprise at the level of obstructions to the company’s operations, which had caused displeasure among the elders, chiefs, and the Government of Liberia and noted to end such practice.
They also appreciated ArcelorMittal for its ongoing road rehabilitation and other interventions within the affected communities, which are expected to enhance the movement of people, goods, and services, thereby boosting local trade and commerce.
The visit by Mr. Silva is seen as a crucial step towards resolving the issues faced by the communities and demonstrates ArcelorMittal’s commitment to its investment in Liberia.
Many believed AML must work with the government in addressing the concerns of the local leaders and to foster a collaborative environment with the locals to ensure sustainable development and mutual benefit for both the company and the host communities.
