Even though Lofa County still retains a good portion of its forest, there are no large scale forestry activities presently taking place in the County. Forest-related activities are mostly limited to burning and sales of charcoal and firewood, and pit sawing. These activities combined constitute only 1% of total household income.2 Rubber is not produced or processed in Lofa County in significant quantities, unlike in Margibi, Sinoe, Bong and Nimba Counties.

Timber and mining do not feature in the County’s economy but have high potential. The Wologisie Mountain has not yet been exploited for minerals, but potential exists. Deposits of iron ore, gold, diamonds and other minerals are mined only illegally in Lofa, and the authorities lack the resources to control the problem. Some international companies including BHP Billiton have been assessing the mining possibilities in Lofa, which could lead to a major concession and significant investment and jobs creation.

Poverty reduction for Lofa depends on the County’s ability to harness its natural resources in a smart and environmentally-friendly manner for maximum benefit to the widest array of citizens.