ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has officially dedicated a fully rehabilitated overhead bridge, a $700,000 investment that restores a critical transportation and economic link between its Buchanan Port concession and several surrounding communities in Grand Bassa County.
Located approximately 2.5 kilometers from the port, the bridge connects AML’s operational facilities with local areas including Koruah, District Hole, More Town, Baconie, and the Sunset Beach area. Though publicly owned, the bridge is vital to both community mobility and AML’s iron ore railway operations, which run from Mount Tokadeh to the port.
In 2018, AML engineers identified structural concerns, including visible cracks in the bridge’s piers. A joint technical assessment conducted with the Ministry of Public Works confirmed the structure was deteriorating and posed a significant threat to public safety and mining logistics. Despite the urgency, the government cited insufficient resources to address the repairs at the time.
In response, AML commissioned an independent engineering assessment in 2019. The findings revealed worsening damage and highlighted the imminent risk to motorists, pedestrians, and company operations. With no external funding available, AML took the lead in spearheading the bridge’s restoration.
Following high-level consultations with government officials and community stakeholders, AML developed a comprehensive plan that included traffic rerouting, public safety awareness campaigns, and a permanent structural redesign.
In 2023, AML contracted global engineering firm AFCONS to execute the rehabilitation project. Construction was completed in February 2024, and the bridge was officially handed over to AML for integration into its operational network. The total investment amounted to approximately $700,000.
Speaking at the dedication ceremony on Thursday in Buchanan, AML’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, Marcus Wleh, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s infrastructure development.
“Today, we are here not only to dedicate this bridge but also the rehabilitated road,” Wleh said. “This project is part of ArcelorMittal’s ongoing efforts to contribute to Liberia’s progress.”
Grand Bassa County Development Officer Moses Henry, speaking on behalf of Superintendent Karyou Johnson, expressed gratitude for AML’s intervention.
“We describe this as ‘good’ for now, but we pray for ‘very good,’ and eventually, we want to see ‘excellent,’” he said, encouraging continued collaboration.
Buchanan City Mayor George Gaybueh shared similar appreciation. “This road has been closed for months, but we remained hopeful. I commend ArcelorMittal Liberia for this initiative. It marks the beginning of deeper collaboration with the City Corporation.”
While the bridge primarily facilitates AML’s operations, it also serves the broader public, including residents, transporters, and logging companies. Its restoration has alleviated congestion, enhanced safety, and reinvigorated commercial activity in the area.
ArcelorMittal Liberia’s investment in the 2.5-kilometer overhead bridge exemplifies the positive role of corporate social responsibility in addressing infrastructure challenges, fostering economic development, and contributing to national advancement—beyond the bounds of a concession agreement.
