Liberia’s Mining Law Faces Major Overhaul as Varmah Links Reform to Second MCC Compact

Capitol Hill, Liberia:The Chairperson of Liberia’s Law Reform Commission, Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, is calling on the 55th Legislature to undertake a complete overhaul of the country’s mining law, warning that piecemeal amendments may no longer be enough to address the growing challenges in Liberia’s mineral sector.

Cllr. Varmah says Liberia needs a modern and comprehensive legal framework capable of responding to the changing realities of the mining industry, while also strengthening regulation, accountability and the management of the country’s natural resources.

He made the call Thursday, September 17, 2026, when he addressed lawmakers during a legislative briefing and policy framework discussion organized by the House Committee on Mines and Energy at the House of Representatives.

According to the Law Reform Commission Chairperson, Liberia’s mining sector has changed considerably since the existing legal framework was established, creating the need for lawmakers to reassess the law from top to bottom.

“The mining law needs to be comprehensively revised because the current framework does not adequately address the challenges confronting the sector,” Cllr. Varmah said.

Cllr. Varmah cautioned lawmakers against limiting the reform process to individual sections of the law, arguing that a broader review could identify legal gaps and inconsistencies that may continue to undermine effective governance of the mining industry.

He further connected the proposed mining law reform to Liberia’s efforts to qualify for a second Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact, noting that legal reforms in key sectors are among the areas being considered under the MCC assessment process.

“If Liberia is serious about meeting the legal reform requirements for the second MCC Compact, then revising the mining law should be given serious attention, and it starts with you the Legislature,” he added.

The Law Reform Commission boss urged members of the 55th Legislature to treat the issue as a national priority, saying a strengthened mining law could provide clearer rules for investors, improve regulatory oversight and help the government better manage the country’s mineral wealth.

The legislative engagement brought together lawmakers and relevant stakeholders to examine Liberia’s mining policy and legal framework, with discussions focused on identifying weaknesses in the current system and determining the reforms needed to make the sector more effective, accountable and responsive to national development goals.