Liberian President Joseph Boakai has appointed R. Matenokay Tingban as the country’s new minister of mines and energy, a leadership change that comes amid ongoing talks with the United States over potential investments in Liberia’s growing critical minerals sector.
Tingban, who previously served as deputy mining minister under former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, replaces Wilmot J.M. Paye. According to a statement from the president’s office on Monday, the move is aimed at strengthening governance and improving efficiency within the ministry, though further details were not provided.
A separate announcement on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of a new head for the state mining regulatory agency, signaling a broader restructuring effort within Liberia’s extractive industries.
The changes coincide with Liberia’s push to attract greater foreign investment in its mining sector, which has recently identified reserves of lithium, cobalt, manganese, and rare earth elements—key materials for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.
Earlier this month, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Liberian Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti in Washington to discuss expanding American participation in the West African nation’s mineral development.
As the new minister, Tingban will play a central role in advancing Boakai’s “ARREST Agenda,” a five-year national plan focused on agriculture, roads, rule of law, education, sanitation, and tourism. His appointment is seen as part of broader efforts to enhance investor confidence and improve transparency in the sector.
Boakai also announced additional deputy ministerial appointments in the mines and education ministries, pending Senate approval.
Iron ore continues to dominate Liberia’s mineral exports, led by global steel giant ArcelorMittal, which operates the country’s largest mine and rail network. However, gold exports have become increasingly significant as new exploration projects emerge. Other key players in Liberia’s mining landscape include Ivanhoe Mines, Bea Mountain (Avesoro), MNG Gold, and Hummingbird Resources.
Source:Africa Publicity
