Liberian News: Ganta–Yekepa Road To Get Complete Pavement

Monrovia-ArcelorMittal Executive Chairman, Mr. Lakshmi N. Mittal, has pledged that his company will complete the long-awaited asphalt pavement of the Ganta–Yekepa highway, describing it as a priority for community development in northern Liberia.

Mr. Mittal made the commitment during the dedication ceremony of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s newly completed iron ore concentrator in Tokadeh, Nimba County. The high-level event was graced by His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and marked a significant milestone in Liberia’s mining sector, showcasing ArcelorMittal’s $1.8 billion Phase II expansion.

Addressing guests at the Tokadeh Crusher site, Mr. Mittal highlighted the importance of listening to the concerns of local communities and working closely with the Liberian government to fulfill key development promises.

“President Boakai has always discussed with me about the community,” Mr. Mittal said. “We take all concerns from the Government of Liberia very seriously, and we are committed to working closely with the government. We are continuing to invest in the community through schools, vocational training, and completing the work on the Ganta–Yekepa route.”

A Decade-Old Commitment

The Ganta–Yekepa road project, stretching approximately 70 kilometers, has long been regarded as one of the most critical infrastructure commitments made by ArcelorMittal to Nimba County. Although not a core requirement of its Mineral Development Agreement, the company agreed in 2013 to finance the project as part of a broader package of community benefits tied to its expansion efforts.

Under an agreement signed with the Government of Liberia, ArcelorMittal committed between US$37 million and US$40 million to pave the route. Construction was expected to begin in late 2013, with completion targeted by 2016. However, the outbreak of the Ebola virus and a subsequent global slump in iron ore prices forced delays.

By 2018, the company reaffirmed its commitment and announced plans for phased construction over three dry seasons. In 2023, the paved road reached Sanniquellie, the capital of Nimba County, significantly improving access, mobility, and economic activity.

A Vital Link for Local Development

Mr. Mittal’s renewed pledge is being welcomed as a source of renewed hope for thousands of residents along the remaining stretch to Yekepa, which remains unpaved and difficult to navigate, especially during the rainy season.

For the people of northern Nimba, completing the road means more than just ease of travel. It represents improved access to healthcare, safer transport for students, and a lifeline for farmers and small businesses. It promises to reduce vehicle wear and tear, cut travel time, and enhance trade between towns and communities.

The road is viewed as a critical artery for local and regional development, capable of unlocking new opportunities and improving everyday life.

Rebuilding Trust Through Action

Mr. Mittal’s remarks are also being interpreted as a gesture of goodwill and accountability to the people of Nimba County. Despite ArcelorMittal’s substantial footprint in the county over the past two decades, many residents have raised concerns about unfulfilled infrastructure commitments.

This public recommitment—made in the presence of the President of Liberia—sends a strong signal that the company is ready to follow through on its promises and support Liberia’s development agenda.

Looking Ahead

Once completed, the Ganta–Yekepa road will serve as both a practical transport route and a powerful symbol of corporate responsibility. It represents what is possible when government and private investors work together for inclusive growth.

For communities that have long felt sidelined, this road is more than asphalt. It is a path toward dignity, opportunity, and shared prosperity. If ArcelorMittal delivers on Mr. Mittal’s promise, the road will not only connect towns but also rebuild trust and confidence in Liberia’s mining future.

New Republic Liberia

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.