A nationwide mineral resource survey funded by the Government of China has uncovered a range of new mineral deposits across Liberia, discoveries that could unlock billions of dollars in potential investment and significantly expand the country’s mining industry.
The findings were reported by Business Insider Africa, which highlighted that the geological survey, considered the most comprehensive mapping of Liberia’s mineral resources in more than 50 years, identified several valuable minerals, including lithium, neodymium, silver, nickel, zinc, uranium, and cobalt.
Officials say the discoveries could attract as much as US$3 billion in investment, while also creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic activities in communities where the minerals are located.
According to Rexford Sartuh, Assistant Minister for Mineral Exploration and Research at the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the survey has provided new insights into Liberia’s geological potential.
“We are grateful that China helped with this survey, which has resulted in Liberia discovering new minerals that could enhance the country’s development,” Sartuh said.
Expanding Liberia’s Resource Base
Liberia’s economy has historically depended heavily on natural resources such as iron ore, gold, diamonds, and rubber. The newly identified minerals could allow the country to broaden its mining sector and attract investors interested in emerging global industries.
Among the most notable discoveries are lithium and cobalt, minerals widely used in the production of batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies. Their presence suggests Liberia could potentially play a role in the global transition toward cleaner energy systems.
First Major Geological Survey in Over Five Decades
During his State of the Nation address to the Legislature of Liberia on January 27, 2025, Joseph Nyumah Boakai revealed that Liberia had received the final mineral resource survey report from the People’s Republic of China.
Boakai described the report as a landmark scientific study, noting that it provides the most detailed understanding of Liberia’s mineral potential in more than five decades.
“This report provides new insights into Liberia’s mineral resource potential and represents the most comprehensive scientific investigation conducted in over five decades,” the President told lawmakers.
Fanseh Mulbah, Deputy Minister for Planning at the Ministry of Mines and Energy, explained that the Chinese-sponsored survey marks Liberia’s first comprehensive mineral mapping exercise since 1973, when the United States funded the country’s last national geological assessment.
The updated survey revealed a broad range of minerals across Liberia, including lithium, neodymium, silver, nickel, zinc, uranium, chromium, lead, tin, cobalt, niobium (coltan), tantalum, manganese, copper, zirconium, and monazite.
Opportunities and Responsibilities
Authorities say the Ministry of Mines and Energy has begun analyzing the survey results and is preparing the legal and regulatory framework that will allow companies to begin prospecting activities.
If properly managed, the discoveries could mark a major turning point for Liberia’s mining sector by attracting new investments and creating jobs.
However, experts warn that transparency, environmental safeguards, and responsible governance will be essential to ensure the country’s mineral wealth contributes to long-term sustainable development.
Source: Business Insider Africa
