Monrovia, Liberia – Diamond Mineral Water has strongly refuted recent social media and media reports alleging that its products and those of similar companies are unsafe for public consumption. The company’s defense comes amid growing concern from lawmakers and regulatory authorities over what they describe as “unsubstantiated and harmful misinformation.”
Addressing journalists at a press conference held at the Capitol Building in Monrovia, Montserrado County Representatives Bernard Blue Benson (District #17) and Jerry K. Yorgbor (District #12) denounced the reports as damaging to both public confidence and private investment in Liberia.
“While the production of unsafe water is a matter that deserves serious scrutiny, the repeated publication of baseless claims undermines economic development and investor confidence in our country,” Rep. Benson said.
The lawmakers warned that such false allegations could lead to significant job losses among Liberians employed by the bottled water industry, including Diamond Mineral Water — one of the country’s largest producers.
“In a nation where unemployment remains a critical challenge, putting these companies at risk will only deepen poverty in our communities,” Rep. Yorgbor cautioned.
Both legislators condemned what they described as “dishonest individuals” and “irresponsible bloggers” seeking to blackmail reputable businesses for personal gain. They called on the public to report such acts to the authorities.
“We are urging Liberians to support legitimate businesses and to stand against those spreading malicious disinformation,” Rep. Benson added.
Meanwhile, the National Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Commission (NWASHC) has also stepped in, confirming that it has launched a full-scale investigation into the contamination claims.
NWASHC’s Executive Director, Morris G. Gono Jr., said his agency takes the allegations seriously but noted that prior inspections found Diamond Mineral Water in compliance with both national and international safety standards.
“Our previous investigations, including one conducted in 2010, found that Diamond Mineral Water met all required safety standards. Those past allegations were based on outdated and inaccurate information,” Gono clarified.
He emphasized that the Commission, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), continues to conduct quarterly laboratory analyses of water companies to ensure quality and compliance.
“The Commission remains vigilant. Current inspections are underway to ensure that all water on the Liberian market is safe for public consumption,” Gono said.
The lawmakers concluded by calling on Liberians to avoid spreading unverified information that could create unnecessary panic or economic instability.
“Our priority is to protect public health while safeguarding jobs and encouraging investment. Together, we must reject misinformation that threatens our national stability,” Rep. Yorgbor asserted.
The NWASH Commission’s findings are expected to provide clarity in the coming weeks as regulators reaffirm their oversight role in ensuring safe and quality drinking water for all Liberians.
