-Over Exclusion from ArcelorMittal MDA
By: Shallon S. Gonlor / shallonsgonlor@gmail.com
NIMBA COUNTY – The President of the Nimba County Disabled Community, Mr. D. Abestine Tozay, has issued a strong call to the Nimba Legislative Caucus, local authorities, and the Liberian government to include Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the expected second Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) with ArcelorMittal Liberia or face mass protest.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Mr. Tozay expressed deep frustration that the first MDA, which guided ArcelorMittal’s operations for over two decades, failed to address the needs of PWDs.
“For more than 20 years now, we’ve been left behind by multi-million dollar company in our own country. Now that the second MDA is expected before the National Legislature, we demand to be included.” Tozay explained.
The Nimba County Disabled Community president emphasized that the initial exclusion of PWDs could be attributed to Liberia’s post-war recovery needs, noting that the priority at the time was attracting investors.
“But that excuse is no longer valid,” he stated. “It is time for an inclusive agreement that will provides us access to healthcare, education, employment, and basic social benefits for disabled persons across the company’s three operational counties.”
Mr. Tozay warned that it they are not considered this time around a widespread protest by the disabled community initiated to draw the attention of the international community because Liberia is signatory to other legal instrument that protect the wellbeing of person with disabilities. “If our concerns are not captured in this second MDA, we will protest at the offices of the legislative caucus members and even block their homes,” he threatened.
He also cited an existing law mandating that 4% of every 100 jobs be allocated to PWDs, a policy he claims ArcelorMittal has consistently failed to honor — even when qualified candidates with disabilities have applied.
“Being disabled does not mean we are not capable,” Tozay said emotionally. “We are tired of begging. We want to be able to send our children to school from our own pockets — not from handouts. We can do administrative work, we can contribute.”
He concluded by urging all stakeholders, including lawmakers and government line ministries and agencies, to act swiftly. “Again, If PWDs are included in this new MDA, it will be a step toward fulfilling both national and international obligations to the disabled community. We will not be silent anymore.” Mr. Tozay lamented.
The second MDA between ArcelorMittal and the Liberian government is expected on the floor of the legislative debate. Affected communities have also raised broader concerns about the lack of basic services such as safe drinking water, health care, and road infrastructure in areas impacted by the company’s operations.
