Chamber of Mines Boss wants More Focus placed On Mining Sector

As the Liberia Chamber of Mines (LCM) celebrates its second anniversary amid great prospect, the President of the Chamber says mining industry plays a pivotal role in our economies, contributing significantly to job Creation, foreign exchange earnings, infrastructural development and the country’s Gross Domestic product.

Predicated upon this,  Amara Kamara stated that it is imperative that we go the extra mile and work together to ensure that the benefits of this vital sector are equitably distributed, and that its operations adhere to a high ESG Standards.

In a statement delivered at the second anniversary celebration of the organization held at the Mamba Point Hotel in Monrovia, Mr. Kamara pointed out that the sector is by mile the largest contributor to the country's gross merchandise exports.

But amid these prospects, he said there are challenges, which when addressed, the sector would contribute much more to the country if political actors and industry leaders work together towards a common goal, a goal that will put Liberia on the path with other regional actors in Africa.

To achieve the desired goal, Mr. Kamara vowed LCM’s willingness and readiness to support and collaborate with government in achieving its developmental objectives and goals.

“As we celebrate our 2nd anniversary let us be reminded that there are lots of challenges ahead of us at The LCM and the Nation at large, regarding our Mining Sectors and its related activities. From a Global perspective mining and its related activities did well in 2023, and it also projected to do more this 2024,” said the LCM boss.

“We are therefore asking all of our members & well-wisher for their continuous Support to The Liberia Chamber of Mines that will make us increase and improve our participation locally and globally,” he furthered.

As part of the mechanism to address many of the hiccups in the mining sector, Mr. Kamara stressed the need for a deep collaborative effort between government and the mining industry, coupled with seeking sub regional and regional approach, specifically taking cue from neighboring countries and others.

On this, he indicated that the Liberia Chamber of Mines is Keen to seeing changes in Mining Laws of Liberia and regulation governing explorations in Liberia:

“Mining Jurisdiction, geological overview and data, local content, security, infrastructures, and the environments are very important to mineral exploration companies and super junior companies establishment, if the laws are favorable more companies will pour in.”

“The Laws need to be favorable to Data Collections and Enhancement, because this helps to attracts investment in to the Country,” he added.

In remarks, the Director of Liberian Geological Survey at the Ministry of Mines and Energy,  Jefferson Chea, lauded LCM for its contributions to the mining sector.

According to Mr. Chea, LCM has over the last two years mobilized investment in the interest of the country and has been a force for good despite the complex challenges.

“There are lots of challenges and we are aware. These challenges include physical and geological, lack of roads, power supply. Amid all these, the Liberia Chamber of Commerce has helped in the development drive with the creation of employees. We have a huge responsibility as a government to [address the risks) in this sector. We must be able to get an accurate data for mineral resources and update existing mineral databases. Government must promote local participation by developing the industrial base.”