By Fiona Benson
The controversial Agreement between Liberia and the Republic of guinea, has claimed the attention of members of the House of Representatives.
As such, the Plenary, has with immediate effect, mandated its Committees on Investment and Concession, Judiciary, and Transport to review and verify compliance with the Liberia/Guinea Implementation Agreement.
The decision, according to insider sources is to evade potential conflict that would put the two neighbors at loggerheads.
The action is also in connection with the recently executed Concession and Access Agreement (CAA) between the two West African neighbors, and Ivanhoe Liberia (HPX/SMFG).
Plenary’s decision stems from a communication from Sinoe County Electoral District #3 Representative, Representative Alex S. Noah, drawing attention to the need for legislative scrutiny to ensure that all institutional and procedural steps were duly followed prior to the signing of the agreement.
Rep. Noah said the Implementation Agreement (IA), signed on October 21, 2019, and ratified in May 2021, governs the framework for cross-border use of rail and port infrastructure between the two countries. The IA outlines specific provisions for joint review by the Monitoring and Inter-Ministerial Committees, whose appraisals guide Liberia’s decisions in the Agreement.
In his communication, Noah requested that the relevant committees verify whether the Monitoring and Inter-Ministerial Committees were properly constituted, confirm their involvement in reviewing and appraising the request for access, examine any bilateral engagements or communications leading to the signing of the CAA.
It is to also report findings to plenary before any ratification decision.
The House’s action aims to ensure full compliance with the Liberia/Guinea Implementation Agreement, protect Liberia’s credibility, and prevent potential diplomatic or procedural breaches.
Meanwhile, a joint committee has cited several government entities and the management of HPX to appear for a public hearing on the ratification of the Concession and Access Agreement (CAA) between the government and Ivanhoe Liberia Ltd. (HPX/SMFG).
Members of the Committee, include the Committee on Investment, Judiciary, and Transport. It is Chaired by Bong County District #7 Representatives Foday Edward Fahnbulleh.
The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 1: p.m. in the 1st Floor Conference Room, House Wing, Capitol Building.
In the citation issued by the Office of the Chief Clerk, invited the Inter-Ministerial Concession Committee (IMCC), the ministries of Justice, Transport, Finance Development Planning, National Investment Commission (NIC), National Bureau of Concessions (NBC), and the Chief Executive Officer of HPX.
The HPX official is also expected to provide clarification on behalf of the company.
The Joint Committee notes that the CAA, signed on July 5, 2025, marks a significant step to modernize Liberia’s rail and port infrastructure.
It also aligns with the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), aimed at promoting equitable and sustainable mineral sector growth.
Public Hearing
The public hearing will highlight key components of the Agreement, including:
Independent Rail Operator (IRO) Framework:
Establishing a regulated system that allows third-party access to rail and port infrastructure.
Phase I Rail Access:
Granting Ivanhoe Liberia Ltd. access to transport up to five million metric tons per annum (mtpa) under ArcelorMittal Liberia’s existing MDA.
Phase II Expansion:
Development and expansion of new rail and port infrastructure to accommodate up to 30 mtpa, pending feasibility studies and regulatory approvals.
Upfront Payment:
Ivanhoe Liberia Ltd. previously paid US$37 million to the former administration as consideration for development rights.
Subsequent Payments, which the Agreement mandates an initial US$10 million upon legislative ratification, followed by US$15 million upon the granting of physical access under and the Community Development Fund (CDF).
HPX is required to contribute toward community development initiatives, including infrastructure, education, and health services in affected areas.