The World Bank invested $19 millions in an industrial gold mine in Liberia, in the hope of contributing to development. But it only brought poverty and pollution.
The shady history of the mine, which the World Bank in Liberia does not appear to have checked, could mean that the investment might enrich Charles Taylor’s cronies.
Meanwhile, the 325 families who have been displaced to make way for the mine are longing for the improved housing, medical clinic, water wells and toilets promised to them. Three years after, they are still waiting.
My investigation was published by IRIN, 100Reporters, and Le Monde Afrique (in French).