-Pres. Boakai Clarifies, Call for US–Liberia Mineral Survey
By: G Bennie Bravo Johnson
Liberian leader, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, has clarified his recent call for the United States Government to conduct a comprehensive mineral survey of Liberia.
During his visit to the White House, President Boakai urged the U.S. to assist Liberia by sending experts to evaluate the country’s natural resources, stating that Liberia must be fully informed of its mineral wealth before entering new concession agreements.
Upon his return at the Roberts International Airport on Friday, July 11, 2025, the President stressed that his request was based on the need for a nationwide survey. He clarified that the mineral assessment previously conducted by China, which he referenced during his State of the Nation Address, only covered two counties — not all 15.
“My role is to sell Liberia positively. We want Liberia to be great again. The call is intended to ensure we know what we have before doing business with anyone,” President Boakai stated.
However, records show that in 2013—while serving as Vice President—Boakai requested China to conduct a national mineral survey. The results of that survey were officially presented and publicly released in January 2025 under his current administration.
In 2018, a Chinese technical team conducted geological and mineral surveys in Bong and Gbarpolu Counties. In Gbarpolu, the team found significant gold and diamond deposits, especially in Bopolu and Belle Districts, with many artisanal mining operations already active.
In Bong County, the survey confirmed iron ore, bauxite, and traces of manganese, emphasizing the need to reassess the Bong Mines area for industrial potential.
The report urged Liberia to improve geological data systems, infrastructure, and mining regulations, and stressed environmental protection and community involvement. Though submitted to the Ministry of Mines and Energy, no major national implementation followed.
The Chinese findings laid a technical foundation but did not amount to a comprehensive national survey—fueling President Boakai’s call for broader international support.
Expanding the mineral survey to cover all 15 counties of Liberia could unlock immense economic and strategic benefits for the country. A comprehensive and modern survey would provide accurate data on the volume, type, and location of key mineral deposits such as gold, iron ore, bauxite, and rare earth elements. This data would not only strengthen Liberia’s bargaining position in future concession agreements but also attract credible international investors who rely on reliable geological information before committing to large-scale operations. It would serve as the foundation for evidence-based policymaking and responsible resource management.
For Liberia, this initiative represents a turning point in efforts to transform its natural resource sector from artisanal and informal practices to industrial-scale mining guided by transparency and sustainability. With a clear understanding of its mineral wealth, the government could implement policies that prioritize environmental protection, community development, and equitable revenue-sharing. Moreover, job creation, infrastructure development, and increased national income could significantly reduce poverty and dependency on aid.
From a diplomatic standpoint, the mineral survey opens a strategic gateway for deeper U.S.–Liberia engagement. The U.S. involvement, especially through technical assistance and transparency-driven partnerships, would not only bolster Liberia’s governance capacity but also reaffirm America’s commitment to supporting African-led development. It aligns with broader U.S. interests in promoting stability, economic growth, and democracy in West Africa.
Simultaneously, Liberia’s acknowledgment of the Chinese survey underscores its balanced foreign policy approach. China’s earlier efforts in Bong and Gbarpolu Counties demonstrate its technical ability and interest in Liberia’s resource potential. While the Chinese survey was limited in scope, it remains a valuable starting point. By inviting both China and the U.S. into its resource mapping process, Liberia could position itself as a neutral ground for economic cooperation, rather than competition, between the two global powers.
Ultimately, leveraging both U.S. and Chinese support in the mining sector—without over-reliance on either—could enhance Liberia’s sovereignty and global standing. It sends a signal that Liberia is ready to take charge of its development agenda, inviting partnerships rooted in mutual respect, transparency, and shared prosperity.
