By Amos Harris
The Ministry of Mines and Energy has officially launched a nationwide mining tour and enforcement campaign aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and responsible mining activities across Liberia. The initiative, spearheaded by Mines and Energy Minister R. Matenokay Tingban, reflects the government’s renewed commitment to protecting Liberia’s mineral resources while ensuring that mining operations contribute positively to national development.
Speaking during the launch of the exercise in Bopolu City, Gbarpolu County on Sunday, May 24, 2026, Minister Tingban described the nationwide tour as a major step toward restoring order, confidence, and compliance within Liberia’s mining sector. He emphasized that the government remains fully committed to ensuring that all mining activities are conducted in accordance with the Minerals and Mining Law of Liberia.
According to the Minister, illegal mining continues to undermine Liberia’s economic progress by depriving the government of much-needed revenue, discouraging legitimate investment, and causing environmental degradation in several mining communities. He noted that the new enforcement measures are intended to promote lawful mining practices while safeguarding Liberia’s natural resources for future generations.
Minister Tingban disclosed that the nationwide campaign will involve regular inspections, monitoring exercises, and community engagements across the country. He said the Ministry is determined to ensure that individuals and companies operating within the sector fully comply with national mining regulations and environmental standards.
As part of the government’s broader engagement strategy, the Ministry has intensified awareness and sensitization campaigns in mining communities. Residents and local operators are being educated on responsible mining practices and the importance of adhering to Liberia’s mining laws and environmental policies. Authorities at the Ministry explained that the outreach initiative is expected to encourage sustainable mining activities while strengthening cooperation between mining communities and the government. Officials believe the campaign will help create a more organized, transparent, and environmentally responsible mining sector nationwide.
Minister Tingban further revealed that the Ministry recently took decisive action against companies and individuals accused of violating mining regulations. He disclosed that one company allegedly constructed a mineral processing plant without obtaining the proper authorization required under its previous licensing arrangement. According to the Minister, the government’s actions demonstrate its determination to enforce mining regulations without fear or favor. He stressed that Liberia’s natural resources must be protected through strict adherence to established laws and policies governing the mining industry.
The Ministry also confirmed the dismantling of several unauthorized dredging operations believed to be causing serious environmental damage to rivers and surrounding communities. Authorities said the operations were carried out in collaboration with state security agencies as part of coordinated efforts to safeguard Liberia’s waterways and mineral wealth.
In a major enforcement action in Henry Town, the Ministry’s operations team reportedly seized three excavators, water machines, and several other mining equipment from illegal mining sites. Authorities disclosed that some foreign nationals, including Chinese operators allegedly holding Class “C” licenses, were reportedly carrying out Class “B” mining activities in protected forest areas in violation of mining regulations.
Minister Tingban described the nationwide exercise as a strong signal that the government is serious about creating a level playing field for legitimate investors while discouraging unlawful activities within the sector. He noted that responsible mining remains essential to Liberia’s long-term economic growth, environmental protection, and job creation.
The Mines and Energy Minister meanwhile called on citizens across the country to support the government’s ongoing efforts by reporting illegal mining activities in their respective communities. He stressed that public cooperation remains critical to the success of the nationwide enforcement campaign.
According to Minister Tingban, the exercise officially began in Gbarpolu County and will gradually extend to other counties across Liberia. He added that Mines Agents assigned across the country will be held fully responsible for monitoring mining activities and submitting regular reports to the Ministry.
The nationwide mining tour brought together senior officials of the Ministry of Mines and Energy, including Assistant Ministers, Directors, Mines Agents, and other technical staff who joined the inspection and engagement activities in Gbarpolu County as part of the government’s intensified drive to reform and strengthen Liberia’s mining sector.