A group of traditional leaders and residents from Kploh District, Rivercess County, has formally petitioned the Liberian government to grant a Class ‘B’ mining license to the Palm Group of Companies, a Liberian-owned enterprise currently operating under a smaller-scale Class ‘C’ license.
The petition, delivered to Minister of Mines and Energy Wilmot Paye, urges the government to upgrade the company’s mining status to allow semi-industrial operations on ancestral lands legally recognized under the Community Rights Law of the Liberia Land Authority (LLA).
During a brief presentation ceremony at the Ministry, the petitioners led by the speaker of Liberia’s Traditional Council of Chiefs and Elders Chief Bob Kofi Zah, said the local people are united in offering their land to the Palm Group.
Chief Zah emphasized that the community is confident in the company’s ability to uphold its social responsibilities, citing the firm’s existing contributions such as road rehabilitation, support to local schools, and job creation for youth in the district.
“Our land has potential, and we believe Palm Group is in the best position to tap into it responsibly,” said Chief Zah.
“They’ve worked with us in peace, and we have seen the benefits, even under a smaller license.”
The petitioners included community elders, youth representatives, and the traditional Queen of Kploh, Madam Rebecca Garsaynee.
Also present was Palm Group’s Manager, Peter Logan, who reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainable mining and community development.
Minister Paye lauded the group for choosing dialogue and legal channels to express their development interests.
He acknowledged the importance of community consent in matters concerning mineral rights and pledged a timely review of the petition.
“Your peaceful approach not only demonstrates maturity but helps us in ensuring transparency,” Minister Paye said.
“If the company is already meeting its legal obligations under its current license, we see a clear path toward considering an upgrade.”
Deputy Minister for Operations William Hines confirmed during the ceremony that Palm Group has already submitted a formal application for a Class ‘B’ license.
He assured the community that the Ministry would examine the application and all related factors before making a final decision.
The upgrade to Class ‘B’ licensing would allow the company to scale up its operations, using semi-mechanized equipment, and potentially accelerate economic benefits to the region.
The Ministry emphasized that due diligence and adherence to regulatory procedures will guide its final determination.
The people of Kploh await the Ministry’s decision with hope that their appeal will translate into broader development and a stronger partnership between community and company.
