Former Margibi Superintendent praises ArcelorMittal

Kakata, Margibi County – Former Superintendent of Margibi County, John Z. Buway Sr., has praised ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) for launching a major community road rehabilitation initiative in Kakata, describing the company’s intervention as “commendable” and a gesture worthy of national appreciation.

Reacting on social media, Mr. Buway emphasized the project’s importance, particularly because AML is not an NGO or a government institution but has nonetheless committed over half a million US dollars to improving public infrastructure.

“It is always good to say THANKS for the good things people do for you!” Buway wrote. “ArcelorMittal is not an NGO but spending a little over half a million USD to rehabilitate the 26 Gate to Kacity road, approximately 5 kilometers, for all-season use is commendable yah! And thanks also to all who made this possible—be it government or civil society actors!”

On Tuesday May 13, 2025, AML officially broke ground on the rehabilitation of a 28-kilometer stretch of road connecting Kakata’s Kpelleh Town to the Firestone Staff Club. The project, valued at $527,000, is being undertaken in response to a community request spearheaded by Margibi County District #4 Representative, Hellen Wureh.

The road had long deteriorated, causing hardship for residents, commuters, and businesses. The rehabilitation, which includes structural upgrades, improved drainage, and road reinforcement, aims to make the corridor usable throughout the year—regardless of weather conditions.

At the project launch, AML’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, Marcus Wleh, stressed that the company’s support for community development extends well beyond its mining concession areas in Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa counties.

“We value our communities and go beyond the scope of where we work,” said Wleh. “We’re not the Ministry of Public Works, but we respond to community needs when possible. After thorough consultation and planning, we’re launching this project here in Margibi.”

Wleh disclosed that AML obtained approval from Firestone Liberia before proceeding with construction, in respect of the company’s longstanding presence in the area.

Also speaking, AML’s General Manager of Mines, Jallah Selmah, said the company prioritizes meaningful community engagement.

“Any standard mining operation will never shy away from community engagement,” Selmah said. “It’s not just about saying hello; it’s about doing something tangible. This road is a good example.”

Frebenja Group of Companies, a Liberian-owned firm led by Margibi native Fred Kennedy, has been contracted to carry out the work. Kennedy pledged to ensure the highest quality, both in compliance with AML’s standards and community expectations.

Residents, including students and business owners, expressed gratitude for the project. Hawa Peters, a student at the Booker Washington Institute, said the road work would ease years of hardship caused by the poor road conditions.

“Hopefully the stress of moving up and down on such a bad road is finally coming to an end with the help of ArcelorMittal,” she said. “The company could have taken this project elsewhere but chose to help us here in Margibi.”

This initiative in Margibi—outside AML’s core operational counties—demonstrates the company’s broader commitment to national development. Former Superintendent Buway echoed this sentiment, urging Liberians to support public-private partnerships that deliver real impact.

“My ownpa, I na want the government fail oooo,” he added. “When she fails, we all will feel it bad way. Let’s pray for success yahhhhhh!”

As the machinery prepares to roll, the people of Kakata are hopeful that this long-awaited development.