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<p>Liberia Land Authority (LLA) in collaboration with ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has presented a Public Land Sale Deeds to 12 farmers in Gbaoa and Zolowee Towns in Nimba County. The process which began started in late 2021, aimed at legitimizing the status of these farmers who lands are being leased by the company. Held at the same Gbapa Town Hall on Friday June 10, 2022. The program brought together high-profile delegates from Arcelor Mittal Liberia, the Liberia Land Authority and the farmers and other stakeholders. Giving the objective of the occasion, Cllr. Kula L. Jackson, Commissioner on Land Policy and Planning disclosed that the occasion was meant to legalize the people's land ownership, considering how essential land ownership is in keeping the peace we now enjoy.Presenting the deeds to the respective owners at the ceremony, the Chairman of the Liberia Land Authority, Atty. J. Adams Manobah, Sr., described the process as part fulfilling the government’s promise in upholding the Pro-poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development. According to Chairman Manobah, the process will also positively contribute to the economic status of the as they legally get into a lease agreement and partnership with AML.The LLA Boss specified that, considering the many conflicts that come from the land sector around the country, the government through his leadership is handling every land matter with care and consciousness. Chairman Manobah disclosed that, if the land disputes are not handled appropriately, it could lead to the nation’s next civil conflict. It is however hoped that all Liberians will see the need to help solve these disputes arising at community and clan levels before it escalates to raise national concerns. He also used the occasion to urge farmers who received their deeds to continue paying their taxes to the government so as to be in good standing with the government. AML lawyer, Cllr. Boakai Paegar mentioned that the company has decided to pre-pay on behalf of the farmers in the legalization process so as to continue being in good standing with the law. Cllr. Paegar wants the rest of the farmers to ensure that they get involve into the phase 2 of the process that is coming up shortly. Adding that, the company is not willing to do business with those who are out of the law. Meanwhile, the farmers used the occasion to laud AML and the LLA for the initiative. They stressed that the process has now made them proud and legitimate land owners. The farmers also used the seized the moment to encourage the rest of their colleagues to take part in the phase 2 of the process so as to avoid future hindrances.</p>
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