Monrovia, Liberia -A five-member Task Force constituted by President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. to safeguard Liberia’s natural resources has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing illicit mining and the unsustainable exploitation of the country’s natural resources.
The Chairman of the Task Force and former Deputy Director of the Liberia National Police, Colonel Abraham Kromah, said the body is also focused on preventing the pollution and contamination of water sources resulting from mining activities.
Col. Kromah expressed confidence in the capacity and professionalism of the Task Force, noting that its composition provides the necessary expertise to effectively execute its mandate in the interest of the Liberian people.
He made the statement Tuesday, September 8, 2026, when he addressed journalists at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing in Monrovia.
According to him, the Task Force has developed a roadmap and divided Liberia into six operational regions to facilitate a coordinated response to the complex challenges associated with the protection of the country’s natural resources.
Col. Kromah described the reported scale of illicit mining and natural resource exploitation as a serious concern, stressing that the Task Force will work to ensure the enforcement of Liberia’s environmental and mining laws fairly and without fear or favor.
He said the Task Force will collaborate with rural communities to strengthen information gathering and work closely with relevant government ministries and agencies to identify, investigate, and ensure that individuals found in violation of the country’s environmental and mining laws are held accountable in accordance with the law.
Col. Kromah further disclosed that preliminary information available to the Task Force indicates that approximately 485 excavators are operating in Grand Kru County in connection with alleged large-scale illicit mining activities.
He also noted reports of the use of substances such as cyanide and mercury in some mining areas, which he said could contribute to significant pollution and contamination of water sources.
The Task Force Chairman emphasized that the government’s approach will focus on protecting Liberia’s natural resources, preserving the environment, and ensuring that the country’s mineral wealth contributes meaningfully to national development and the well-being of its citizens.