By Elijah Easter Kaykay(Grand Bassa)
In a unified cry for justice, residents of Moore Town, Korduah, Big Fanti Town, Fairgrounds, Peachuzohn, Success Community, Sugarcane Farm, Dirt Hole, and surrounding areas gathered at Moore Town Hall on Friday to demand accountability from ArcelorMittal Liberia and local authorities.
The rally, attended by scores of affected community members, laid bare deep frustrations over what residents described as long-standing neglect, environmental degradation, and unfulfilled promises made under the Mineral Development Agreement (MDA).
The agreement, signed years ago, was intended to ensure fair employment, environmental protections, and community development benefits—but locals say those commitments have gone largely unmet.
Community leaders, including Mr. Dixon Dugbeh, voiced disappointment over the lack of direct engagement from their elected leaders. Despite notifying Representative Matthew Joe of District #3 and the County Superintendent well in advance, neither official was present at the meeting. Instead, they sent delegates who, according to attendees, failed to address their core concerns.
“This is not just about jobs or scholarships,” said one resident. “It’s about respect. It’s about the future of our children and our land.”
The citizens demanded during the meeting tthat there be immediate employment opportunities for local residents, transparent management of the 20% community share of ArcelorMittal’s contributions, effective mitigation of environmental hazards, including flooding and land degradation and Proper oversight of scholarship and livelihood funds intended to support local youth and economic development.
Residents also raised alarms over the growing risks associated with the transport of iron ore through their communities. They cited increased traffic hazards, noise, pollution, and road damage caused by the company’s heavy trucks and machinery.
“These trucks are destroying our roads and putting our children’s lives at risk,” said a local youth advocate. “We cannot continue to live like this.”
The rally concluded with a strong call for immediate and direct dialogue with both ArcelorMittal Liberia and government officials. Community members stressed their determination to continue pushing for justice, transparency, and tangible development.
“This is just the beginning,” said Mr. Dugbeh. “We will not rest until our voices are heard and our rights respected.”
