President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has formally written the 55th Legislature, seeking legislative ratification for the Concession and Access Agreement (CAA) between the Government of Liberia and Ivanhoe Liberia Ltd. The deal, according to the President, is projected to create more than 3,500 direct and indirect jobs and stimulate national economic growth through major infrastructure expansion. In his communication to the Legislature, President Boakai described the agreement as a landmark milestone in Liberia’s infrastructure and mineral development sectors.
Signed on July 5, 2025, the CAA aims to modernize the country’s rail and port systems while promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth under the administration’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID). “I am pleased to submit herewith, for legislative consideration and ratification, the Concession and Access Agreement executed between the Government of Liberia and Ivanhoe Liberia Ltd.,” the President wrote. “This agreement represents a significant step in our efforts to open Liberia’s infrastructure for shared, multi-industry use and to advance economic transformation.”
Under the agreement, Ivanhoe Liberia Ltd. will operate within a 25-year legal framework enabling the transport of Guinean iron ore through Liberian rail and port infrastructure subject to bilateral arrangements with the Republic of Guinea. Key Features of the Ivanhoe Agreement The CAA introduces an Independent Rail Operator (IRO) framework, which allows third-party access to Liberia’s rail and port infrastructure under a regulated system ensuring transparency and competitiveness in mineral transportation. During Phase I, Ivanhoe Liberia Ltd. will gain rail access for up to five million metric tonnes per annum (5 mtpa) under the existing ArcelorMittal Liberia Mineral Development Agreement (MDA).
In Phase II, the company plans to expand and develop new infrastructure to handle up to thirty million metric tonnes per annum (30 mtpa), pending feasibility studies and regulatory approvals. Financially, the agreement outlines an upfront payment of US$37 million already made to the previous administration as consideration for development rights. Upon ratification by the Legislature, an additional US$10 million will be paid, followed by another US$15 million once physical access under Phase I is granted. A vital social inclusion component of the deal is the Community Development Fund (CDF), which obligates Ivanhoe to contribute resources toward local infrastructure, education, and healthcare initiatives in affected communities.
The Ivanhoe deal is anticipated to generate over 500 direct jobs during the construction phase and an estimated 3,000 indirect jobs through local suppliers, contractors, and service providers. According to President Boakai, the project will not only create employment opportunities but also enhance Liberia’s logistics capacity, boost domestic revenue, and strengthen bilateral economic ties within the Mano River Union region.
“I trust that the Legislature will ratify this Agreement, which is poised to unlock Liberia’s infrastructure for shared, multi-industry use, creating pathways for inclusive growth and national revenue expansion,” President Boakai concluded. If ratified, the Ivanhoe Liberia rail agreement would mark a major step forward in Liberia’s pursuit of integrated infrastructure development linking mining, transportation, and community empowerment in one comprehensive national growth strategy.
Author: Zac T. Sherman
