PNG Prime Minister Marape Orders Cabinet Review to Strengthen Landowner and Provincial Benefits in Mining
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has ordered a Cabinet review aimed at strengthening landowner and provincial government benefits in major mining projects, starting with consultations in Kainantu, Eastern Highlands Province.
Mr. Marape said the Department of Mining will return to Kainantu to lead discussions with landowners, the provincial government, and district leaders to ensure a fairer structure in the distribution of mining benefits. “The Government will take a submission to Cabinet to review and strengthen how landowner and provincial government benefits are structured under our mining framework,” he stated.
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| PNG Prime Minister Orders Cabinet Review to Strengthen Landowner and Provincial Benefits in Mining |
He reaffirmed that under the Pangu-led Government’s policy, 40 percent of equity gained by the National Government in mining projects will be passed back to provincial governments and landowners. The Prime Minister said the existing Memorandum of Agreement for the K92 Mine will be revisited to ensure transparency and equity.
Mr. Marape announced that a high-level interagency team led by the Department of Mining will be established to resolve outstanding land disputes, legacy issues, and facilitate open dialogue among all stakeholders. “We must sit down together — landowners, provincial government, district, company, and national government — to find a meeting point where no one is offended,” he said.
Drawing comparisons with the PNG LNG Project, the Prime Minister warned against prolonged court disputes that delay benefits to landowners. “We have learned from the LNG experience that court battles only delay benefits. Dialogue and consensus will ensure the people receive what is rightfully theirs,” he stated.
He also revealed that Cabinet will soon consider a proposal to recognise Eastern Highlands Province for its contribution to one of the country’s most efficient and transparent mining operations. “Eastern Highlands is paying huge tax revenues through this mine and deserves due respect from the National Government,” he added.
Prime Minister Marape commended Eastern Highlands Governor Simon Sia, Kainantu MP William Hagahuno, and Henganofi MP Robert Atiyafa for their leadership and constructive engagement. He also acknowledged Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald for his ongoing support to PNG’s mining and governance sectors.
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