Labor and justice advocate Urges Liberia to Pivot From Aid to Trade, Demands Review of Mining Deals; George Tengbeh calls U.S. policy shift an opening for self-sufficiency, alleges concessions shortchange country
BY: Rufus Divine Brooks & Lee Monjue
MONROVIA — Prominent governance, labor and justice advocate George Tengbeh is calling on the Liberian government to embrace the United States’ recent shift from foreign aid to trade, describing it as a critical pathway toward national self-sufficiency.
Tengbeh, founder and executive director of the Liberia Labour and Governance Alliance, said in an exclusive interview that the U.S. policy change presents Liberia with an opportunity to strengthen its economy and reduce long-standing dependence on external assistance.
“This is a moment for Liberia to rethink its economic model,” Tengbeh said. “We cannot build a sovereign future on aid. Trade, investment, and fair resource management must take center stage.”
He urged lawmakers to urgently revisit existing concession agreements to ensure the country and its citizens benefit equitably from Liberia’s natural resources.
Tengbeh singled out major concession holders, including Bea Mountain and ArcelorMittal, alleging that the companies continue to extract significant mineral wealth while providing what he characterized as minimal returns to the state.
Tengbeh also accused the Ministry of Labour of operating what he termed an “illegal parallel financial structure” — a levy that required foreign workers to pay an annual fee of US$50 directly to the ministry rather than to the Liberia Revenue Authority.
He said the practice was halted after his organization raised concerns.
Tengbeh is pressing the government to prioritize transparency and accountability in resource management and to adopt policies that promote broad-based economic participation.
“The goal must be long-term national development, not short-term revenue that bypasses the people,” he said.
The U.S. has signaled in recent policy statements a greater emphasis on trade and private-sector-led growth in Africa, moving away from traditional aid frameworks.