By Hogkins D. Tokpah
The Liberia Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (LEITI) Thurday, November 20, 2025 concluded a stakeholder meeting in Grand Bassa County, urging citizens to engage constructively with their leaders to understand why they are not feeling the impact of concession company agreements.
During the meeting in Wayzohn, Grand Bassa County, LEITI Sector Analyst Mr. J. Elijah Kai utilized the Abridged Simplified Contract Matrix booklet to highlight issues with concession companies such as Liberian Agricultural Company and Equatorial Palm Oil. Mr. Kai emphasized that these companies should not bring in foreign laborers for jobs that can be done by Liberians.
According to Mr. Kai, the law mandates that after five years of the agreement being signed, 50% of top senior manager jobs should be given to Liberians, increasing to 75% after 10 years. Companies are also required to train Liberians to take over managerial positions.
Regarding surface rental fees for land use, companies must pay $1.00 per acre for land use, $0.50 per acre for land preparation, and $2.00 per acre for developed land during operational time. Underdeveloped land incurs a fee of $1.00 per acre.
The meeting brought together citizens from various sectors in Grand Bassa County, who commended LEITI for shedding light on the issues and requested that the institution invite companies for ongoing stakeholder engagements in the future.
