MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The Government of Germany, through its development agency Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), has installed a 5.4 kilowatts solar power system at the Office of Precious Minerals (OPM) under the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
The installation provides an independent and stable electricity supply to the OPM, ensuring uninterrupted mineral valuation and regulatory activities.
According to Mines and Energy release, the project forms part of Germany’s bilateral support to Liberia’s mining and energy sectors.
The release noted that the project is also expected to enhance operational efficiency and reduce disruptions caused by unstable power supply.
Speaking on behalf of the German Embassy, Deputy Head of Mission, Daniela Weber, said,” The new solar facility at the Office of Precious Minerals is expected to safeguard critical data systems and ensure smooth diamond and gold valuation processes before export”.
Meanwhile, she reaffirmed the German Government’s support for Liberia’s mining and energy sectors during the commissioning of the solar facility.
Madam Weber highlighted Germany’s ongoing Resource Governance and Energizing Development (EnDev) programmes implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit.
She emphasized Germany’s role in promoting responsible mining practices, digitalization, supply chain transparency, and sustainable energy solutions in Liberia.
At the same time, Assistant Minister for Energy Oliver Gbegbe, who represented the Deputy Minister for Energy, Charles Umehai, welcomed the installation of the solar power system, describing it as a major step toward institutional efficiency.
Minister Gbegbe said,” The initiative will enhance productivity and strengthen service delivery”.
He said,” The installation is expected to ensure uninterrupted operations and reinforce Liberia’s commitment to responsible mineral governance and sustainable institutional development”.
Also speaking, Deputy Minister for Planning, Research and Development, Franseth Mulbah, thanked the German Government for such an initiative, describing it as a practical and impactful intervention.
Minister Mulbah noted that stable electricity will improve governance, transparency, and diamond traceability within the mineral sector.
He said,” The installation aligns with reforms aimed at improving revenue mobilization, environmental compliance, and supply chain transparency”.