-Label the Expense Unjustifiable and Unsustainable
Kakata, Margibi County—The recent announcement by ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) that it has committed US$527,000 to rehabilitate a 28-kilometer stretch of road from Kakata City to the Firestone Staff Clubhouse has sparked widespread criticism from residents of Margibi County.
The company broke ground last week to begin the project, but many citizens have raised concerns over the cost, calling it “unrealistic” for a road that will only be graded and compacted—not paved.
One of the strongest critics, Geologist and Climate Change Activist Forkpayea Flourish W. Siafa, voiced his frustrations on Facebook, accusing AML and District #3 Representative Ellen Attoh Wreh of misleading the public.
“Margibians are not proud or happy with AML,” Siafa wrote. “Our lawmaker is a toothless bulldog… AML is doing grading and compacting of roads in the 21st century—stop playing with our people.”
He further challenged the stated 28km distance, claiming that the actual distance between C.H. Rennie Junction and Firestone’s Division 26 Gate is less than 28km. Siafa also argued that Firestone routinely maintains its own roads, casting doubt on the necessity and scale of AML’s intervention.
Siafa criticized the Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) between the Government of Liberia and AML, arguing that Margibi County, though significantly impacted by AML’s operations, is not benefitting from the agreement like Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa counties.
Another local voice, Sandy Johnson, called on negotiators to return to the table for a new deal.
Speaking on behalf of the Citizens United for Sustainable Development in Margibi County, Johnson said the project, in its current form, is a waste of resources.
“Using US$527,000 just to grade and compact a major road used by three multi-billion-dollar companies — Firestone Liberia, ArcelorMittal, and China Union — is unacceptable. It’s not sustainable, and it will create additional health hazards for road users,” Johnson said.
The citizens’ group issued several recommendations:
Mr. Johnson is at the recommending that Firestone Liberia should contribute additional resources—either in cash or materials—to support the project.
He wants the Margibi County Legislative Caucus to engage Firestone to prepay two to three years of land rental fees to fund sustainable road development—and Legislative project funds should be redirected to support road pavement initiatives.
The group has called for a temporary suspension of the project until their recommendations are considered.
In response, AML says the project is being implemented under strict safety standards and will be completed in two months. It is being led by Jallah Selmah, General Manager of Mines, and newly appointed Road Construction Coordinator, Benjamin Momolu.
