The survey, the largest in more than 50 years identified lithium, neodymium, silver, nickel, zinc, uranium, and cobalt, which could allow Liberia to diversify beyond its traditional reliance on iron ore, gold, diamonds, and rubber.
Rexford Sartuh, assistant minister for mineral exploration and research at the Ministry of Mines and Energy, said: “We are grateful that China helped with this survey, which has resulted in Liberia discovering new minerals that could enhance the country’s development.”
The discoveries are expected to attract up to $3 billion in potential investment, generating jobs and stimulating local economies in regions where the minerals are found.
First Major Mineral Survey in Over 50 Years
During his address to the 55th Legislature on Monday, January 27, 2025, under the theme “Rescue to Development: Implementing the ARREST Agenda”, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai reported that Liberia had received a mineral resource survey from the Government of the People’s Republic of China.
“This report provides new insights into Liberia’s mineral resource potential and represents the most comprehensive scientific investigation conducted in over five decades,” Boakai said, extending Liberia’s gratitude to China for funding the landmark project.
The updated geological data now covers much of the country’s untapped mineral potential, revealing a broad portfolio of resources beyond Liberia’s historical focus on iron ore, diamonds, and gold, including lithium, neodymium, silver, nickel, zinc, uranium, chromium, lead, tin, cobalt, niobium (coltan), tantalum, manganese, copper, zirconium, and monazite.
Boakai highlighted that the Ministry of Mines and Energy had analyzed the survey findings and is preparing the legal framework for companies to begin prospecting, opening a new chapter for Liberia’s mining sector.
He also highlighted progress on a $5.5 million China-funded Liberia Broadcasting System expansion, which includes modernized television and radio infrastructure aimed at improving national communication and public outreach.
With new mineral data and a clear path for investment, Liberia stands at a pivotal moment for economic development. The combination of newly discovered resources, potential foreign investment, and supporting infrastructure projects could transform mining into a key growth driver.
Experts, however, caution that transparent governance, careful planning, and environmental safeguards will be essential to ensure these discoveries translate into long-term sustainable development.