The Assistant Minister for Mines at the Ministry of Mines and Energy, Carlos Tingban, has reignited calls for strict compliance with regulatory requirements in Liberia’s mining sector.Tingban emphasized that all investors entering the sector must meet clearly defined standards and obligations. He stressed that failure to comply will not be tolerated under the leadership of President Joseph Boakai.“
For any company to be granted a license, it must fully satisfy all specified requirements,” Tingban stated. “Any failure to do so will result in decisive government action.”
The Assistant Minister, who also serves as Liberia’s mining regulator, warned that companies operating without full compliance are engaging in illegal mining—an act that the current administration views with zero tolerance.
In line with these enforcement measures, Tingban recently led a comprehensive investigative audit across Liberia’s major mining operations, including Bea Mountain Mining Corporation (BMMC). The probe targeted production discrepancies, safety violations, and noncompliance with both national and international mining standards.
Since taking office, Tingban has become a key figure in mining sector reform. His leadership has been marked by efforts to restore transparency, enforce environmental standards, and boost accountability. One such move included the imposition of an $80,000 fine and temporary shutdown of Yi Cheng Mining Company for serious violations, including environmental damage and tax evasion.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy has also ramped up capacity by recruiting 70 skilled professionals—including engineers and geologists—who are now deployed across the country to decentralize oversight and enhance local capacity.At the prestigious Mining Indaba 2024 conference in South Africa, Liberia’s mineral potential was showcased globally, attracting interest from major international investors and positioning the country as an emerging, responsible mining destination.
Tingban has also spearheaded efforts to formalize small-scale mining, promote environmental rehabilitation, and eliminate illegal operations. His enforcement strategy includes rigorous inspections and consistent application of mining laws.In a relatively short time, Assistant Minister Carlos Tingban has emerged as a transformative force in the Liberian mining sector. His commitment to transparency, technical excellence, and firm regulation is redefining mining governance and ushering in a new era of sustainable growth and shared prosperity for Liberia.
