By B. Linus Flomo
The Institute for Research and Democratic Development (IREDD) in Liberia along with partners has begun an initiative to strengthen accountability and transparency in the management of natural resources in the country.
On Wednesday, June 19, 2024, IREDD held an interactive discussion with stakeholders from the transparency and natural resources sector across the country with a focus on building their capacity for effective management of the country’s products in a transparent way.
The meeting, which included representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Liberia Labor Congress, Ministry of Mines and Energy, and other stakeholders, featured an interactive dialogue focused on basic recommendations to resolve conflicts in the natural resources sector.
Speaking at the opening of the one-day engagement, IREDD’s Executive Director Dan Saryee warned that the current extraction of the country’s resources, if not managed carefully, will lead to problems and eventually leave nothing for future generations of Liberia.
He criticized the presence of ArcelorMittal and Bea Mountain in the country for nearly two decades, pointing out their failure to renovate inherited buildings and also highlighted that Bea Mountain operates a clinic that lacks vehicle.
IREDD’s Executive Director also mentioned that ArcelorMittal has not yet constructed a clinic for the local community in the area where they operate adding, “These companies claim to be operating at a loss, yet they continue to stay and even seek contract renewals with the national government.”
Saryee also highlighted Burkina Faso and Niger in the African region, noting that these countries are taking significant steps to ensure their natural resources benefit their ordinary citizens and
that the control of these resources remains within the country.
He concluded by expressing dissatisfaction with the national legislature for their recent retreat in Grand Bassa, amid claims that they distributed $13,500 to each senator for a four-day workshop.
PWYP Vice Chairman Sayor E. Wahtoson applauded Bong Mines for the level of support they provided to the country during their days and stated that even though there were no civil society groups at the time people enjoyed what they were supposed to have enjoyed.
Wahtoson also expressed disappointment in government officials and citizens for hindering the efforts of inspectors in the field.
These inspectors are working to curb the exploitation of natural resources within the county, but their work is often obstructed.
When investigators uncover harmful practices that should be addressed, some officials intervene, claiming that the person or company is under their protection or interest.
This interference not only undermines the inspectors’ efforts but also allows the continued degradation of the environment by those exploiting these resources.
He also disapproves of certain individuals in government and civil society organizations willing to compromise the nation’s interests by accepting bribes from companies and individuals exploiting the country.
He concluded by assuring the participants that they should engage with these companies in the five counties to ensure the right actions are taken and emphasized that the discussion has been ongoing for a long time and it is now time to take action.
The Director of Programs and Operations at IREDD expressed gratitude to all participants for their interactive engagement and valuable contributions and emphasized their satisfaction that the participants successfully met the meeting’s objectives.
