By Festus Poquie
Liberia is courting interest from Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest in railway infrastructure as the West African nation looks to upgrade transport links needed to unlock mineral exports, including newly discovered rare earth deposits.
President Joseph Boakai welcomed Forrest, founder and executive chairman of Fortescue Metals Group, and his delegation in Monrovia on Sunday, saying the government is open to “credible investors” aligned with Liberia’s development priorities.
Forrest said the visit was aimed at exploring opportunities in agriculture, logistics and rail, though it wasn’t immediately clear whether his interest extends to building new lines or managing existing sovereign rail assets.
Liberia’s rail network is central to efforts to exploit its mineral wealth, but the system remains underdeveloped.
Former Minister of Mines and Energy Wilmot Paye has estimated the Yekepa–Buchanan corridor’s iron ore resources at some 17 billion tonnes, valuing them at about $2.38 trillion — figures that, if developed responsibly, could underpin substantial export revenues.
Authorities are working on setting up an independent railway operator to oversee state-owned rail assets and eventually open access to multiple users.
ArcelorMittal, the steelmaker and biggest mining investor in Liberia, currently operates and uses the rail line. US company Ivanhoe Atlantic Inc. would join once a planned multi-user rail system is rolled out, according to the government’s broader strategy.
Boakai said his administration wants partners willing to invest responsibly, create jobs and add value locally.
“We are prepared to work with people who are serious about making good things happen for our country,” he said during a dinner for the delegation at his Rehab Community Office.
Forrest said Liberia has significant but underused economic potential, including marine resources and logistics opportunities.
Fortescue has been expanding beyond mining into green energy and infrastructure-related investments, making Liberia’s rail and logistics needs a possible fit as the country seeks to improve transport access for future mineral development.
