NBC assures MSPs of due diligence working with Concessionaires

October 1, 2019

MSPs want a voice in negotiating processes with concessionaires by the Government of Liberia

The National Bureau of Concession has stressed that the quest to ensure concessions’ compliance with their agreements is cardinal.

The Director-General of the National Bureau of Concession says the NBC with its mandate will ensure due diligence not only with concession companies, but with all parties.

His comments come amidst calls by Multi-Stakeholder Platforms to bring to bear on concession companies, opportunities for citizens living in concession areas to access employment, desist from human rights violations, thus ensuring compliance with the labor laws of Liberia. The calls were contained in progress reports presented by the various MSPs at the 3rd Annual conference of Multi-stakeholder Platforms.  

From the reports, they share similar challenges which include high unemployment of members of concession communities, limited access to contracts, medical and educational facilities lack of logistics, office space and inadequate funding and other resources to conduct the affairs of their respective committees among others.

A potential conflict highlighted is situated in Kinjor, Grand Cape Mount County, where two families are claiming legitimacy over 150 acres, of land in the area. They are calling for speedy intervention as well as legalizing/legitimizing their statuses, sustained livelihood programs, continuous training, advocacy and awareness programs etc.

Some MSPs boasted of making various strides in conflict resolution and peace-building education, conducting mini-workshops, drafting of their bylaws and constitution, formation of steering committees, holding of regular meetings etc.

Collectively, they are calling on central government to allow them to have a voice in negotiating processes with concessionaires and ensure appropriate disbursement of Social Development Fund.

At the same time, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for Programme, Violet Baffour emphasized that Concessionaires needed to live up to their social corporate responsibilities as enshrined in Concessionaires Agreement for the benefit of the affected communities.

“This will surely enhance and strengthen a more robust and improved living conditions of the affected communities and prevent conflict,” UNDP Deputy Boss noted.

As the project comes to a close, Ms. Baffour deems prudent prioritization of a sustainability plan for the MSPs at the level of the National Bureau of Concessions, which will drive the dispute resolution processes.

“The provision of office space and hiring the services of the MSPs by the concessionaires is a pathway to the prevention of any future conflict” she said.

She expressed hope that women’s participation in peacebuilding and dispute resolution will increase in subsequent MSPs formation, that will promote gender responsiveness and participation in peacebuilding processes in Liberia.

NBC Director General Coleman mentioned that addressing concession communities’ relationship appropriately will significantly contribute to harmony and sustained investment in the Country.

According to Coleman, the focus of the government through the PAPD, is to strengthen the abilities of its citizens and create opportunities where all can appreciate and benefit.

He expressed appreciation to all partners especially UNDP and Peace-Building Fund for the continued support in getting this initiative running, but was quick to note that sustainability remains a key factor.