MISIMA LANDOWNERS SUPPORT OK TEDI TAKEOVER OF GOLD & SILVER PROJECT
By Sandra ULG
LANDOWNERS from the Misima Gold and Silver Mine Project have expressed full support for the recent renewal of Prospecting License EL1747 and welcomed the possible acquisition of Kingston Resources by Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OkTedi).
During a media conference held yesterday, long-serving chairman of the Misima Towoho Siung Landowners Association Elizah Gwama said community members were informed and consulted during a hearing held on the island from May 27 to 29.
He confirmed that the renewal of the license was supported by the landowners and relevant government agencies.
Mr. Gwama says people were happy and pleased upon learning that Okedi, a local entity, is planning to acquire Kingston Resources’ interests on the island.
He says the people are excited to see a national company coming in to take over. This brings hope that benefits, including infrastructure and services, will stay in the country and directly benefit the local communities and boost the country’s economy as well.
Misima Island, which once hosted a large-scale gold and silver mine, has drawn renewed interest after recent exploration revealed promising deposits in the same area previously mined.
The chairman explained that when Kingston Resources arrived, the community was initially unsure if the project would be successful. However, recent results have reignited optimism.
He says Okedi’s potential involvement signals a new chapter for the island and aligns with the vision of landowners who want to see more PNG-owned companies take the lead in resource development.
He also emphasized that any development must ensure equitable benefit-sharing and include much-needed infrastructure such as roads, schools, hospitals, and airports.
In the meantime, the chairman also acknowledged that while political leaders and individuals may express differing views on this matter the landowner association remains the legitimate voice of the people on mining matters.
He says the association signed the original MOU in 1990 and remains the only consistent body representing landowners since the original mine ceased operations.
While the future of the partnership between Kingston and Ok Tedi remains under discussion, landowners have pledged their full backing to a transition that places ownership and benefits into the hands of Papua New Guineans.
