Yekepa, Nimba County — The Chief Executive Officer of ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has reaffirmed confidence in Liberia’s investment environment, saying the country’s ability to attract and sustain business is strengthened by collaboration between investors, government institutions, and local communities.
Speaking recently in Yekepa during the certification ceremony of newly trained AML security personnel, the CEO said Liberia’s commitment to creating a stable environment for investors reflects President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s declaration that the country is “open for business.”
“I think you’re sending a very, very clear message. You’re echoing President Boakai’s words by saying His Excellency was saying that Liberia is open for business. That’s true. That’s very true. I can vouch for that,” he said in reference to Police Inspector Gregory Coleman’s earlier comment about protecting investment in Liberia.
As one of the largest foreign investors in Liberia, AML’s continued presence and expansion represent a strong message to the international business community about the country’s investment potential. The CEO emphasized that when a major investor demonstrates confidence in Liberia, it helps encourage other companies around the world to look at the country as a destination for responsible and sustainable investment.
He said Liberia’s story must be shared globally, with investors invited to explore opportunities in the country and become partners in economic growth.
The AML CEO said the continued support and cooperation from the Liberia National Police (LNP) have helped create confidence for investors operating in Liberia.
“Whenever we have problems around us, anything that could prevent us from doing what we should be doing in terms of production, the LNP is always there to resolve the situation and make sure that there’s an amicable solution going forward,” he said.
He emphasized that protecting investments goes beyond security measures and requires companies to build strong relationships with the communities where they operate.
The CEO recalled advice from the Inspector General of Police, Col. Gregory Coleman, who stressed that companies must invest in their communities as part of ensuring long-term stability.
“He said to me, don’t call me to come and protect your things if you don’t put in effort to look after the communities. That’s where the first protection starts,” he said.
According to the CEO, AML has embraced that approach by working to strengthen relationships with communities around its operations and ensuring that local people feel connected to the company.
He described AML as a company that has become closely linked with Liberia because of its long presence and contribution to the country.
“ArcelorMittal Liberia is part of Liberia,” he said, adding that the company’s connection with the country extends beyond business.
The CEO acknowledged that while companies cannot provide employment opportunities for everyone, responsible investment requires continuous engagement and support for communities.
“It’s impossible to give jobs to everybody. We know there are communities and people suffering around us. It’s impossible to employ everyone,” he said.
However, he noted that the relationship between AML and surrounding communities demonstrates the value of partnership and mutual respect.
“When I drive through the communities surrounding us with ArcelorMittal shirts on, people are not aggressive. I don’t get thrown with stones. I get greeted. I get invited to come and share food,” he said.
He encouraged AML employees and contractors to see themselves as contributors to Liberia’s development, urging them to embrace both national pride and commitment to the company.
“We want our employees, everyone, and the contractors who work for us to be true patriots. We want you to love your country. We also want you to love the company, because that goes hand in hand,” he said.
The CEO said the success of major investments like AML demonstrates the importance of partnership between government, businesses, and communities in building investor confidence.
He added that Liberia’s progress depends on creating an environment where existing investors can grow while new investors are encouraged to come and explore opportunities.
“The message is that Liberia is open for business,” he said, noting that companies operating successfully in the country can serve as examples to the world that Liberia is ready for investment, partnership, and sustainable economic development.
The AML CEO said continued collaboration among stakeholders will remain critical in positioning Liberia as a competitive investment destination and inviting the world to see the opportunities the country has to offer.
