MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Mines and Energy Minister Wilmot Paye has renewed calls for tougher regulatory measures across the Mining Sector.

Minister Paye stressed that stronger oversight is the only way to tackle illicit mining, smuggling, and environmental abuse.

He noted that the ministry will not relent in its efforts to clean up the sector, warning that unregulated mining drains state revenue, threatens communities, and undermines investors’ confidence.

Minister Paye also underscored the importance of strengthening regulatory environments to prevent illicit activities across the country.

The Mines and Energy Minister, at the same time, is calling on local leaders, mining communities, and the public to support the government’s crackdown by reporting illegal activities and demanding accountability from operators.

Minister Wilmot Paye spoke at the National Stakeholders or Reporting Entities Workshop aimed at assessing money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing risk in the Mining Sector.

Meanwhile, the Officer-In-Charge of the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA), Mohammed Nasser, is craving for the continued collaboration and support from all stakeholders to improve Liberia’s growth and development.

Nasser said,” Doing so is key to fostering sustained progress for the nation and its people, while tackling money laundering and drug financing, among others”.

In remarks, GIZ Finance and Administrative Officer Leon Cruz recognized the efforts of the Mines and Energy Ministry in the money laundering, drug financing, and proliferation financing assessment.

Cruz emphasized GIZ’s role in supporting the process and their desire to continue contributing and collaborating with the ministry.

He said,” Addressing these issues will ensure Liberia’s compliance with international standards and maintain its reputation to move forward”.