ADNews-Monrovia: The Minister of Mines and Energy, Wilmot Paye, has called on mining cooperatives across Liberia to sever ties with foreign partners involved in illegal and illicit mining practices that harm the country’s development. In a recent meeting with 19 mining cooperatives, Paye emphasized the detrimental effects of such partnerships on Liberia’s economic growth and the empowerment of its people.
Minister Paye stressed that colluding with foreign miners who engage in unlawful activities undermines national development. He pointed out that these miners often rely on local individuals to gain access to mining sites and evade regulations. In exchange for protection and goodwill, these foreign miners exploit the country’s mineral resources, leaving Liberians with little to no benefits.
Paye condemned the actions of Liberians who, by ignoring the law, handed over the country’s precious resources to foreigners. Despite the illegal nature of these transactions, many still expect to see positive outcomes, when in reality, they are robbing themselves and the nation as a whole.
In response to these concerns, the Mines and Energy Minister revealed that the Ministry has already initiated steps to address the situation. This includes re-profiling all license holders by thoroughly cross-checking the status of their mining licenses. Paye assured that this profiling process will extend to every small-scale miner in the country.
The Minister also expressed his administration’s commitment to working collaboratively with mining cooperatives to ensure a vibrant and sustainable mining sector. He announced that efforts are underway to establish county offices that will manage tasks such as license renewals, grievance redress, and dispute resolution. To make these offices fully functional, the Ministry will provide essential resources, including motorbikes, vehicles, and other equipment.
Paye made it clear that no foreigner or alien could simply arrive in Liberia, settle in remote towns and villages, and engage in mining activities without the involvement of local individuals. “No foreigner who knows no one in Liberia will transport themselves here, enter Monrovia, and just settle into our towns and villages without knowing any of our own people,” he said.
The Minister’s remarks serve as a stern reminder that Liberia’s mineral resources should be managed responsibly, ensuring that the benefits of the sector are enjoyed by Liberians, not exploited by foreign interests.
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