Monrovia- October 24, 2025: Nimba County Senator Nya Twayen Jr. has called for a fair and transparent review of the Concession and Access Agreement between the Government of Liberia and Ivanhoe Liberia Ltd. The agreement, which is currently before the Liberian Senate for ratification, would grant Ivanhoe the right to transport iron ore from Guinea through Liberia’s rail and port infrastructure.

Senator Twayen emphasized that communities in Nimba have long suffered the negative impacts of mining and transport activities, including environmental degradation, farmland loss, and displacement without fair compensation. “This agreement must not only serve national interests but also deliver justice and development to the communities that continue to sacrifice the most,” he stressed.

The Senator questioned a reported $37 million payment allegedly made by Ivanhoe to the previous administration, seeking clarity on how the funds were utilized. As a member of the Senate Committee on Ways, Means, Finance, and Budget, he cautioned against including future payments of $10 million and $15 million tied to the agreement in the upcoming national budget until it undergoes a comprehensive legislative review.

Senator Twayen also underscored the importance of establishing a clearly defined Community Development Fund within the agreement. This fund, he explained, would guarantee investments in vital infrastructure, including schools, clinics, roads, and livelihood programs, ensuring that the people of Nimba benefit directly from the project. By prioritizing the needs of local communities, the Senator believes that the agreement can serve both national interests and the well-being of Nimba’s residents.