Liberia’s Mining Sector Sees Boost with Establishment of National Railway Authority
Liberia’s mining sector has welcomed a significant development with the establishment of the National Railway Authority (NRA), a move that is expected to boost the country’s economy and infrastructure. President Joseph N. Boakai signed Executive Order No. 136, which sets up the NRA to oversee the country’s rail infrastructure, a crucial step in enhancing the country’s connectivity and economic growth.
The move has been praised by stakeholders, including HPX, an American exploration and development company, which congratulated President Boakai for creating the NRA. The company highlighted that the NRA will ensure the efficient, transparent, and equitable use of Liberia’s National Rail Assets by multiple users. “The decisive measures in Executive Order No. 136 set the stage for the development of truly multiuser infrastructure owned by the Government of Liberia,” HPX stated.
The Executive Order is also seen as providing a legal and operational framework for key projects like the Liberty Corridor, which will allow HPX to commence iron ore shipments from Guinea through Liberia. Bronwyn Barnes, President & CEO of HPX, emphasized the significance of this decision: “HPX welcomes this key decision around the formation of the National Railway Authority and the clear leadership role this important body will now have in ensuring transparent access to the nation’s critical infrastructure.”
The Liberia Chamber of Mines has also extended its congratulations to President Boakai, noting that the establishment of the NRA marks a substantial leap forward in enhancing Liberia’s rail network. The Chamber emphasized that the NRA will play a key role in expanding Liberia’s rail infrastructure, which is essential for the transportation of natural resources, passengers, and goods across the country.
The creation of the NRA is expected to unlock significant opportunities for Liberia’s infrastructure and economy, with mining companies like HPX poised to move forward with major projects. As HPX prepares to begin detailed engineering work on the Liberty Corridor, Barnes expressed optimism: “The feasibility study phase can be completed quickly and with financial support from various interested parties.”
The establishment of the NRA is widely regarded as a transformative step that will benefit not only the mining sector but also Liberia’s broader economy through enhanced connectivity and infrastructure development. With the NRA in place, the country is expected to see significant growth and development, making it an attractive destination for investors and businesses.