Monrovia, Liberia: The Government of Liberia has confirmed the signing of a landmark draft Mineral Development Agreement valued at $1.8 billion with Ivanhoe Liberia, a subsidiary of High Power Exploration (HPX). The deal, signed on July 5, represents a major step in transforming Liberia into a regional logistics and mining hub.

The proposed agreement pending legislative ratification includes substantial infrastructure commitments, most notably the shared use and expansion of Liberia’s existing railway corridor from Nimba County to the Port of Buchanan in Grand Bassa. Once completed, the upgraded transport system will enable the export of iron ore from neighboring Guinea, significantly boosting regional trade and cooperation.

Minister of Information Jerolinmek Piah, speaking during a press briefing at the Ministry of Information, described the deal as a “historic milestone” for Liberia’s economy. He said the project will generate thousands of jobs, enhance national revenue, and elevate Liberia’s global profile in the mineral supply chain.

“This $1.8 billion investment, once ratified, will not only improve our national infrastructure but also provide long-term employment and economic benefits for our citizens,” Minister Piah stated.

The railway and port upgrades, along with planned extensions into Guinea, are part of a broader push to position Liberia as the most efficient export route for the vast untapped iron orereserves of Guinea’s Simandou range a region attracting global mining interest.

The deal also includes the launch of a duty-sharing partnership and lays the groundwork for shared infrastructure governance, aligning with Liberia’s broader development agenda of maximizing resource value through regional cooperation and transparency.

The draft agreement has been submitted to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., who is expected to forward it to the Legislature for review and approval.

Once ratified, this deal would mark a transformative chapter in West Africa’s mining and logistics landscape boosting Liberia’s role in the global iron ore market while reinforcing its economic ties with Guinea.

Written By: Jerry Laynumah Siakor

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