Kakata, Margibi County – ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has officially dedicated the newly rehabilitated 28-kilometer Firestone to Kakata road, another milestone in the company’s robust community development initiatives.

The major infrastructure project, launched in May of this year, connects Kakata to the iconic Firestone Club House (Harbel Hill) and was completed at a cost exceeding $500,000. The project was executed by Liberian-owned contractor FREBENJA, with oversight from AML and the Ministry of Public Works. As part of the agreement, FREBENJA will also maintain the road for the next six months.

Speaking during the dedication ceremony on Monday, Marcus Wleh, ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, who represented the CEO, emphasized that the road project is a clear demonstration of AML’s unwavering commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its long-term partnership with the people of Margibi County.

“To the good people of this district and the public, AML wants to officially thank you for your support and patience,” said Mr. Wleh. “This half-million-dollar road rehabilitation project is just one example of how a strong public-private partnership can change lives.”

He praised Margibi’s leadership as “very dynamic,” adding, “We didn’t do it because AML has a lot of money. We did it because we understand our role and responsibility as a corporate citizen.”

Margibi District #1 Representative, Hon. Elleh A. Artoh-Wreh, hailed AML for what she described as a “transformational development.”

“This road is a vital connector between Kakata, Firestone, and Buchanan in Grand Bassa County,” she noted. “Our communities are excited and grateful. When companies in Liberia recognize and embrace their role in national development, we must commend them and continue to engage with them.”

Margibi County Superintendent, O.J. Morris, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the road project is well aligned with the Government of Liberia’s national development agenda, particularly in strengthening rural road connectivity.

Beyond this project, ArcelorMittal Liberia continues to make significant social investments across its host counties, Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa, including in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and agriculture. The company:

• Operates hospitals and clinics treating thousands of patients annually.
• Supports local schools and runs a vocational training center for youth in skilled trades.
• Constructs and rehabilitates roads, markets, and clean water sources.
• Helps local farmers and small businesses through training and empowerment programs.

Since 2006, AML has contributed millions to County Social Development Funds and recently launched a Community Development Fund to deliver projects to local communities directly.

Through these ongoing investments, AML is reinforcing its long-standing commitment to building stronger, more self-reliant Liberian communities.