About the Ministry

The Ministry of Lands, Mines & Energy (MLME) was established by an act of Legislature to administer all activities related to land, mineral, water and energy resources exploration, coordination and development in the Republic of Liberia. We have strengthened the ministry to focus on delivering front line services throughout the country.

In adherence to its statutory mandate, the Ministry formulates and implements policies and regulations in collaboration with other sector related agencies for the delivery of efficient services to the public from the land, mineral, water and energy sectors.

MLME also supports the mineral industry by providing it with valuable information about Liberia’s geology. It also delivers and administers Liberia's Mining Act to improve the investment climate for mineral development.

In order to qualify for participation in the “Kimberley Process Certificate Scheme”, the Liberian government, through MLME has successfully implemented the following three major requirements:

1. Determine Liberia’s diamond production potential
2. Construct a center to evaluate and appraise diamonds for taxation and issue appropriate KP export certificates containing required information and security and anti-forgery safeguards
3. Establish internal control over rough diamond production, sales and export

Introduction

• Small country on the West African coast (111,000 km2)
• Independent republic since 1847, previously a US colony
• Rich in natural resources; Iron Ore, Diamonds, Gold, Bauxite
• Highly prospective and under explored
• Investment highly encouraged

Geography

• Borders Republics of Sierra Leone, Guinea and Cote d’Ivoire
• Tropical, humid climate, rainy season from July to September
• Annual rainfall between 200-380cm
• Dense secondary forest, residual laterite and detrital material
• Numerous streams and rivers
• Coastal plains to plateau, low mountains in NE to 1,380m

Population

• Estimated population 3.4 million (2004)
• 2.7% population growth rate per annum (2004)
• Majority of population consists of 16 ethnic groups
• Government based on Anglo-American law
• 40% traditional, 40% Christian, 20% Islamic
• Official language is English
• Capital city is Monrovia

Investment opportunities

• Numerous mineral occurrences being mined by artisans
• Investment and mining laws are globally competitive
• 100% repatriation of profits
• No currency exchange restrictions
• New mines expected in gold, diamonds and Iron Ore