Liberia, KoBold Metals Eye Partnership to Modernize Geological Data, Boost Mineral Exploration

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Embassy of Liberia in Washington, D.C., is pursuing closer cooperation with KoBold Metals, a U.S.-based mineral exploration company, to strengthen Liberia’s geological research, modernize mineral data systems and attract responsible investment into the country’s mining sector.

Ambassador Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh and senior embassy officials recently met with Alan Carroll, KoBold Metals’ Deputy Director of Government Affairs, to explore opportunities for collaboration in geoscientific research, geological data management and technology-driven mineral exploration.

According to Al-Jerome Anastas Chede Sr., Minister Counselor for Press and Public Affairs at the Liberian Embassy, the discussions focused on the importance of reliable geological information in identifying mineral resources, reducing exploration risks and improving investment decisions as Liberia seeks to expand its mining sector.

KoBold Metals uses artificial intelligence (AI), advanced data analytics and geological expertise to identify mineral deposits. The company’s approach combines technological innovation with human intelligence to improve the efficiency and accuracy of mineral discovery.

During the meeting, both sides discussed how modern technologies could help Liberia improve its understanding of the country’s geological landscape and strengthen the institutional capacity needed to manage its mineral resources responsibly.

Particular attention was given to preserving, organizing and digitizing historical geological records to make them more useful for exploration, research and government decision-making.

Ko Bold Delegation Expected in Liberia

A delegation from KoBold Metals is expected to visit Liberia during the week of November 2, 2026, following an invitation from Assistant Minister for Mineral Exploration and Environmental Research Samuel J. Summerville of the Ministry of Mines and Energy.

According to Al-Jerome Anastas Chede Sr., the embassy’s Minister Counselor for Press and Public Affairs, Carroll is expected to lead the delegation in engagements with officials of the Ministry of Mines and Energy and the Liberia Geological Survey.

The proposed visit will focus on reviewing historical geological reports, maps, field records and digital archives maintained by the Geological Survey. The discussions are expected to identify opportunities to preserve, modernize and improve public access to the country’s geological information.

The planned engagement could help strengthen Liberia’s geoscientific foundation by improving the quality and accessibility of information used to assess mineral potential and guide exploration activities.

Historical geological records and survey data are important tools for governments and investors seeking to understand mineral deposits, assess exploration risks and make informed decisions about resource development.

The delegation is also expected to examine Liberia’s exploration environment and geological characteristics within the broader West African context, potentially identifying areas for future cooperation.

However, the proposed visit remains an exploratory engagement, and any future projects or investment commitments would depend on subsequent discussions between the company and relevant Liberian authorities.

Liberia Seeks Stronger Geological Capacity

The engagement comes as Liberia seeks to strengthen its mining sector by improving the geological information available to government institutions and prospective investors.

Reliable and accessible geoscientific data can help governments better understand their mineral resources, support transparent decision-making and attract investors capable of developing projects responsibly.

For Liberia, modernizing geological records could also help address information gaps that complicate mineral exploration and limit the country’s ability to fully assess its resource potential.

The proposed cooperation with KoBold Metals could provide an opportunity to explore how advanced technologies and improved data management systems might support the work of the Liberia Geological Survey and the Ministry of Mines and Energy.

The initiative also aligns with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s request to U.S. President Donald Trump during a White House meeting in July 2025 for American assistance in surveying Liberia’s mineral resources.

That request underscored Liberia’s interest in international partnerships that could improve geological knowledge, identify potential critical mineral resources and support long-term economic development.

Embassy officials emphasized that strengthening geological institutions and expanding access to high-quality scientific information are important to maximizing the benefits of Liberia’s natural resources while promoting transparency and environmental stewardship.

Participating in the meeting were Joetta Addy, First Secretary for Commerce, Trade and Development, and Charles Allen, Minister Counselor for Political and Diaspora Affairs.

The officials joined discussions on potential areas of cooperation and investment promotion.

Embassy Seeks Practical Outcomes

The Embassy of Liberia said it remains committed to supporting partnerships that promote innovation, strengthen institutional capacity and attract responsible investment to the country.

Ambassador Conteh expressed optimism that the anticipated KoBold Metals visit could establish a foundation for practical collaboration benefiting the Liberia Geological Survey, the Ministry of Mines and Energy, and the country’s broader development objectives.

As preparations continue for the November visit, the embassy said it would facilitate engagement between the company and Liberian government stakeholders.

The discussions are expected to focus on modernizing geological data systems, strengthening exploration capacity and identifying opportunities for cooperation in Liberia’s natural resources sector.

Whether the engagement produces concrete projects will depend on the outcome of the proposed visit and any subsequent agreements reached between KoBold Metals and the Liberian government.