By Laurina B. Lormia
President Joseph Boakai has pledged to end the illegal export of Liberia’s mineral resources.
President Boakai made the disclosure during the cabinet meeting, emphasizing the significance of these resources to national development, warning that the government would not tolerate further exploitation.
According to him, mineral resources are vital to the nation’s development. “We cannot allow them to be taken lightly,” President Boakai stated. To curb illegal shipments, he announced the implementation of a strict inspection system at Roberts International Airport (RIA) to closely monitor mineral exports.
He added that, illegal mining and mineral smuggling have been persistent concerns in Liberia, depriving the nation of much-needed revenue. President Boakai vowed to put an end to this, stressing that the country must take charge of its own wealth.
“This country is well-endowed, yet we have failed to use our resources for the good of our people. We will not allow this to continue,” he declared.
His remarks signaled a decisive shift in policy aimed at ensuring that Liberia benefits from its vast natural wealth.
President Boakai also issued a stern warning against illegal mining activities, which he said have enriched a few at the expense of the broader population.
He urged communities to reject illegal mining operations and support the government’s efforts to regulate the sector.
“People everywhere in the world are becoming increasingly concerned about their areas. There is a growing reluctance to welcome outsiders, especially if we aren’t building our own country. If we don’t take the initiative to develop it, who else will?” he asked.
President Boakai highlighted how illegal miners operate in remote regions, making enforcement difficult.
He pointed out that if such exploitation continues unchecked, Liberia could find itself stripped of its resources without any real development to show for it.
“Illegal miners are rampant in this country. Because there’s little access to these areas, they remain hidden in the bushes, exploiting the resources we have. But what happens when these resources run out? How will we develop our country then?” he questioned.
He however emphasized that, Liberia must take action before it is too late and warned that relying on small-scale foreign donations while allowing resource exploitation is not a sustainable path forward.
“There have been numerous discoveries here that could significantly contribute to the development of this country. However, nothing will be accomplished if we continue to sit back and merely encourage people to donate $5 here and there, only for it to be taken away,” Boakai said.
Meanwhile, the planned inspection system at RIA is one of several measures the government is rolling out to combat mineral smuggling.
Other steps may include stricter regulations and enhanced security in mining zones.
President Boakai urged all Liberians to unite in protecting the nation’s wealth, reiterating that proper management of natural resources is essential for the country’s economic growth and future prosperity.