Kakata, Margibi County – In a groundbreaking move to extend development beyond its traditional concession areas, ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has launched a major $527,000 road rehabilitation project in the Firestone Division’s Kpelleh Town Community, Kakata City.
The 28-kilometer stretch—from Kpelleh Town to the Firestone Staff Club—has been in severe disrepair for years. The newly announced project represents a long-awaited transformation for residents who have endured hazardous travel conditions and restricted access to essential services.
This initiative follows a formal request from the community, relayed through Margibi County District #3 Representative Hon. Hellen Wureh. In a powerful demonstration of public-private partnership, AML officials and community stakeholders convened on-site this Tuesday for a kickoff meeting, aligning objectives and finalizing the implementation strategy.
Liberian-Owned Contractor, Local Impact
The project will be executed by the Frebenja Group of Companies, a Liberian-owned firm headed by Margibi native Fred Kennedy. Mobilization is scheduled to begin this weekend, with full-scale construction set to commence by next Tuesday.
Kennedy, speaking at the launch, pledged high standards and accountability:
“We will ensure the project meets both the technical expectations of ArcelorMittal and the hopes of our people. As a son of this county, I will be on the ground every day to deliver quality.”
Community Investment Beyond Concession Areas
Marcus Wleh, AML’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, emphasized the company’s broader commitment to community upliftment:
“We value our communities, even those outside our operational footprint. We’re not the Ministry of Public Works, but we respond where we can—and today we’re proud to respond to this community’s call.”
Wleh highlighted that AML sought and received clearance from Firestone Liberia—owners of the historic 1926 rubber plantation—prior to initiating the rehabilitation.
Jallah Selmah, AML’s General Manager of Mines, also underscored the significance of this project:
“Any responsible mining company must engage its communities meaningfully. This project isn’t just symbolic—it’s tangible progress.”
Technical Upgrades and Long-Term Benefits
According to AML Road Coordinator Benjamine S. Momolu, the project scope includes installing modern drainage systems, reinforcing road structures, and eliminating deep depressions. These improvements will make the road reliably accessible year-round.
Community Applause and Hope Restored
Residents of Kakata turned out in numbers to celebrate the project’s launch. One elder remarked:
“This road has been neglected for years. We thank ArcelorMittal for answering our cry when no one else did.”
For students like Hawa Peters of the Booker Washington Institute, the news brings welcome relief:
“The daily struggle on this road has been a burden. We’re so grateful that ArcelorMittal chose to bring this development to Margibi.”
A Landmark for Margibi
Though AML’s operations are centered in Grand Bassa, Nimba, and Bong, this project is being hailed as a landmark for Margibi County. It reflects AML’s evolving development philosophy—one that prioritizes inclusive growth across Liberia.
