Liberia To Establish First State-Owned Mining Company To Boost Equity, Jobs, And National Benefits

By Jamesetta D. Williams

MONROVIA–The Government of Liberia has announced plans to establish the country’s first-ever state-owned mining enterprise, a move aimed at securing greater national benefits from mineral exploitation, creating jobs, and strengthening government participation in the mining sector.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Mines and Energy, Hon. R. Matenokay Tingban, on Tuesday in Monrovia, who disclosed that the proposed entity will be known as the National Mining Company of Liberia (NMCL).

According to Minister Tingban, the NMCL will serve as the government’s commercial arm in the mining industry and will hold equity stakes in mining investments across the country. This approach will allow the Government of Liberia to become a co-owner in mining operations, enabling it to earn profits through ownership rather than relying solely on traditional royalty payments.

“The government is moving away from a system that depends only on royalties,” Minister Tingban emphasized. “Our goal is to participate directly in mining ventures through equity, ensuring that Liberia derives greater value from its natural resources.”

He explained that equity participation means the government will own shares in mining companies, giving it a stronger role in decision-making, profit-sharing, and long-term sustainability of the sector.

Minister Tingban noted that the establishment of the NMCL is expected to create thousands of jobs for Liberians, enhance local capacity, and ensure better protection and management of the country’s mineral resources.

The Minister made these remarks upon his return at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he led Liberia’s delegation to the Future Minerals Forum. The high-level global forum brings together policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and technical experts to discuss critical minerals, mining governance, and sustainable resource development.

With global demand for critical minerals rising due to industrial expansion and the global energy transition, Minister Tingban said Liberia’s participation in the forum provided a strategic opportunity to attract investment, mobilize technical support, and form partnerships aligned with the country’s long-term development goals.

The proposed National Mining Company of Liberia marks a significant shift in Liberia’s mining policy and reflects the government’s commitment to maximizing national benefits from the sector while promoting inclusive growth and economic transformation.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.