Gbpaa, Nimba County – May 21, 2025 — ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has unveiled a new phase of its Biodiversity and Conservation Program, investing more than $58,000 to benefit over 60 local farmers across nine fence line communities in the Yarmein belt of Nimba County.
The initiative, implemented in partnership with Humanity Care Liberia, aims to reduce deforestation and biodiversity loss by promoting sustainable farming practices, including swamp rice cultivation, vegetable gardening, poultry, and piggery projects. The project supports livelihood enhancement while easing dependency on forest resources.
It is seen as a major step toward integrating environmental protection with rural development in concession-impacted communities.
Speaking during the launch ceremony in Gbapa, Samuel Peter, AML’s Superintendent for Biodiversity and Conservation, emphasized the company’s long-term commitment to people and planet.
“This program is not about AML profiting—it is about empowering farmers. Our goal is to give communities the tools they need to thrive sustainably while conserving the rich biodiversity that makes this region unique,” Peter said.
Through the program, farmers receive tools, seeds, and food support, with 100% of harvests and earnings remaining with community participants. Local leaders, including Madam Marie Torlo of the Yekepa Vegetable Gardeners Association, praised AML’s approach to meaningful development and community-led impact.
This latest agriculture and biodiversity program aligns with ArcelorMittal Liberia’s broader vision of sustainable mining and responsible corporate citizenship. Since entering Liberia in 2005, AML has made significant investments not only in infrastructure and iron ore production but also in education, health, and environmental protection.
AML has invested Over $ 3 billion in Liberia to date, making AML Liberia’s largest foreign investor
AML’s Phase II Expansion Project, currently underway, includes the construction of a state-of-the-art ore concentrator and significant upgrades to the Yekepa-Buchanan rail corridor.
ArcelorMittal Liberi has over the years implemented key Environmental and Social Impact Management Plan (ESIMP), which includes forest protection, wildlife monitoring, and reforestation initiatives across concession areas.
Community members welcomed the program as a practical and empowering step toward economic independence. Farmers like Esther Doekpo, a beneficiary in Zolowee, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to expand her poultry project.
“This support is coming at the right time. We now have a better chance to grow more food, earn more, and protect our forests,” she said.
AML’s Community Relations and Biodiversity teams are expected to provide continuous support, monitoring progress and ensuring that the program delivers sustainable results across all nine beneficiary towns.
Balancing natural resource development with environmental stewardship forms a huge pillar of ArcelorMittal’s investment in people-centered, eco-conscious programs that demonstrate a model for inclusive and responsible development.
The company plans to expand the biodiversity program in 2026 to reach more communities in Bong and Grand Bassa counties.
