MONROVIA, LIBERIA, .
Liberia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, R. Matenokay Tingban, has called for increased domestic processing of the country’s mineral resources, saying responsible mining and energy investments must deliver greater economic benefits to Liberians.
Speaking at the opening of the Second International Mining and Energy Conference and Exhibition, LIMEC 2026, in Monrovia, Minister Tingban said Liberia must move beyond exporting raw minerals and focus on value addition, industrial development and job creation.
The conference is under the theme: “Transforming Liberia’s Economy: Driving Development Through Sustainable Mining and Energy Investments.”
Mr Tingban said the government wants natural resource investments to generate greater public revenue, expand opportunities for local businesses and improve the livelihoods of mining-affected communities.
He also emphasized the need for predictable laws, transparent licensing, fair fiscal arrangements and environmental protection.
Gold Refinery Initiative
The Minister announced that the government is advancing plans to establish a gold refinery in Liberia.
He said the Ministry of Mines and Energy is pursuing a transparent process to attract technically qualified and financially credible investors capable of developing a commercially viable refinery.
According to Minister Tingban, a domestic gold refinery could help Liberia retain more value from its gold production, improve traceability and revenue collection, strengthen oversight of the gold trade and create skilled employment.
He said the refinery would require reliable electricity, environmental safeguards and a traceable supply chain that incorporates artisanal and small-scale miners.
National Minerals Company
Minister Tingban also highlighted plans to establish the National Minerals and Mining Company of Liberia.
He said the proposed state-owned entity would support responsible government participation in the mineral sector through exploration, mining, processing and value addition.
The Minister said its operations would be guided by professional management, transparent financial reporting and strong corporate governance, while maintaining a clear separation between commercial activities and the Ministry’s regulatory responsibilities.
Artisanal Mining Formalization
The conference also marks the launch of Liberia’s Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Formalization Initiative.
The Minister said the initiative is intended to improve the working conditions and livelihoods of thousands of miners who operate outside formal regulatory systems.
It will promote accessible licensing, registration, miners’ cooperatives, occupational safety training, environmental protection, improved access to equipment and financing, and participation in mineral traceability systems.
Minister Tingban said the initiative would give particular attention to women, young people and communities dependent on artisanal mining.
He added that formalization should not simply be about regulating miners, but also about providing safer working conditions, skills development and access to legitimate markets.
Critical Minerals and African Cooperation
On critical minerals, the Minister said Liberia is seeking to improve its geological information and establish reliable data on the country’s mineral resources before negotiating investment agreements.
He described the government’s position as “no data, no deal.”
Minister Tingban also I announced plans to deepen Liberia’s engagement with the Africa Minerals Strategy Group to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals, geological information, technology transfer, financing and regional value chains.
He said African countries must move beyond supplying raw materials to the global market and develop the industries, skills and partnerships needed to retain a greater share of the value generated by their mineral resources.
Energy Investment
The Minister emphasized that reliable and affordable electricity remains essential to Liberia’s industrial transformation.
He said mining, mineral processing, refineries and industrial corridors depend on dependable energy supplies to operate efficiently and remain competitive.
Liberia is therefore seeking investment in electricity generation, transmission and distribution, including hydropower, solar energy, energy storage and mini-grids.
Minister Tingban called for public-private partnerships and development financing to expand electricity access for industries, businesses, households and rural communities.
Call for Investment Commitments
The Minister urged participants at LIMEC 2026 to move beyond expressions of interest and identify practical investment opportunities, policy requirements, responsible institutions and realistic implementation timelines.
He said the success of the conference should be measured by investments realized, jobs created, industries established and improvements in the lives of Liberians.
Minister Tingban welcomed international investors and development partners, saying Liberia was prepared to work with partners who respect its laws, protect the environment and contribute to sustainable development.
He concluded by calling for stronger partnerships to transform Liberia’s mineral and energy resources into lasting national progress.
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