By By Reporter Domingo Dargbeh
dargbehdomingo@gmail.com
Monrovia, Liberia – The western Cluster CEO Joseph Coelhoh, voiced his concerns regarding the ongoing operational challenges faced by the company since its establishment in Liberia in 2011.
Speaking to Team of Journalists in Monrovia, onTuesday August, 27, 2024 Coelho highlighted the difficulties stemming from a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with the government, which has yet to be amended, despite the company’s compliance with all necessary documentation.
The CEO recounted the company’s initial request to utilize the railroad previously operated by the Liberia Mining Company, which was denied by the government.
He further that the government’s refusal to relocate citizens from the railroad area has significantly contributed to the company operational delays.
The western cluster CEO also revealed that the company had to temporarily cease operations during the Ebola outbreak and was only invited back by the government in 2022.
Expressing disappointment, Coelho criticized the recent suspension of the road user permit by the Liberian government, describing it as disheartening for the company.
He emphasized that Western Cluster has diligently renewed all environmental documents through the Environmental Protection Agency yet faced setbacks when the Ministry of Public Works claimed their permit had expired.
Coelho further pointed out the company’s substantial investment in infrastructure, stating that before their involvement, the roads leading to Bomi County were in poor condition.
He disclosed that Western Cluster had contributed approximately $1.5 million to the previous government for road repairs and an additional $3 million for road maintenance, yet the promised improvements were never realized.
The CEO stated that Western Cluster has invested around $1.7 million specifically to rehabilitate the St. Paul to Tubmanburg road, asserting that the company has been instrumental in enhancing road connectivity in Bomi County.
As Western Cluster Limited continues to navigate these challenges, Coelho remains hopeful for a resolution that will allow the company to resume its vital operations in Liberia.
