Liberia stands atop a wealth of mineral resources, from iron ore, gold, and diamonds to critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, manganese, rare earths, and uranium. Industrial minerals such as rutile, bauxite, and silica sands add further potential for economic growth and national prosperity.
With a relatively small population, careful stewardship of these resources could transform Liberia into one of West Africa’s richest nations. Yet, paradoxically, the country remains among the world’s ten poorest, a situation that demands urgent attention and action.
The disparity between Liberia’s mineral wealth and its economic standing can be traced directly to corrupt mining agreements and illicit practices.
Foreign investors and political elites have historically reaped the lion’s share of profits, leaving the nation and its people with a fraction of the rewards. The Bea Mountain Mining Company is emblematic of this injustice, reporting profits of over US$1 billion in 2025 while Liberia received a paltry 3.3% or less from its own gold reserves.
Beyond questionable contracts, illegal mining and smuggling rings, often led by foreign nationals, continue to siphon resources from Liberia, especially in the Southeast.
These operations, frequently conducted without proper licenses, not only rob the nation of its wealth but also cause significant environmental harm. Local officials, whether powerless or complicit, have allowed this spoliation to persist unchecked.
Much of the unauthorized extraction occurs in sensitive areas such as the forests surrounding Sapo National Park. Here, illegal miners, often lacking any form of government approval, engage in activities that devastate local ecosystems and communities.
In some cases, even when prospective licenses are granted by the Ministry of Mines, operators exceed the bounds of exploration and engage in full-scale mining, further intensifying the damage.
Maryland County presents a stark example, where Duke Global Investment Limited, a Chinese firm, faces allegations of illicit mining in Karluway, Maryland County Electoral District #3.
Residents claim the company exploits natural resources without delivering meaningful benefits to the local population.
In Gbeken, miners reportedly use dredging machines and live in temporary camps deep in the forest, evading both scrutiny and accountability.
Liberia must act decisively to reclaim its mineral wealth for the benefit of its citizens. This begins with removing illegal miners and ensuring only transparent, responsible companies operate in the sector.
Crucially, mining licenses should no longer be granted to entities lacking significant Liberian ownership. As a first step, any company seeking to invest in Liberia’s extractive industries should be required to have at least 50% Liberian shareholders.
Such a mandate would ensure that half of all proceeds remain within the country, fueling local development and prosperity.
Liberia’s minerals belong to its people, not to corrupt officials, foreign investors, or illegal operators. By demanding transparency, enforcing accountability, and insisting on substantial local ownership, Liberia can begin to reverse decades of exploitation.
The time for action is now; only through collective resolve can Liberia protect its minerals and build a future defined by prosperity, equity, and sustainability. Yes, this is possible when the government enforces its political will.
