Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has signed three road construction contracts worth over K390 million (approx. USD 105 million) to improve infrastructure connectivity in Western Province and ensure communities have access to basic goods and services.
The three projects include:
- the construction of the Kiunga–Nomad Road, valued at K294,702,331 (approx. USD 79.6 million),
- the construction of the Balimo–Kawiyapo/Wasua Road in Delta Fly District, valued at K55,187,770 (approx. USD 14.9 million), and
- the upgrading and sealing of the Balimo Town Road, valued at K44,919,600 (approx. USD 12.1 million).
The 150 km Kiunga–Nomad Road will serve as a critical link, connecting communities in the Middle Fly District to services in Kiunga, North Fly District. The new infrastructure is expected to transform local livelihoods by providing improved access to more affordable goods and services that promote social and economic growth. Similar benefits are expected from the other two road projects.
OTML Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit said the road links and upgrades are vital for enabling people to travel into town, experience urban life, and, most importantly, access basic goods and services already available to others in the province.
Ilimbit thanked the Western Provincial Government and Administration for attending the signing ceremony and for their continued support of OTML’s ITCS projects, particularly in ensuring due process before contracts are awarded and implemented.
He also challenged leaders in attendance to contribute counterpart funding for sustainable impact projects that will positively affect the lives of their people. He highlighted the Impact Project Agreement (IPA) currently being proposed by Ok Tedi as part of the ongoing Community and Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) review.
“I believe the IPA will become a good vehicle for us to deliver sustainable impact projects for our people,” he said.
Leaders present at the signing included Governor Taboi Awi Yoto, North Fly MP James Donald, Middle Fly MP Maso Hewabi, Delta Fly MP Agena Gamai, Provincial Administrator Robert Kayun, and Minister for Works and Transport, Hon. Solan Mirisim.
They said the three road projects have been long-awaited dreams of their constituents, and this announcement marks the beginning of those dreams becoming a reality.
The leaders thanked OTML and the National Government for their cooperation in getting the projects approved for delivery.
China Railway Construction Engineering Group Co. has been awarded the contracts and is expected to begin mobilisation in September.
OTML, a 100% Papua New Guinean-owned mine, remains committed to responsible mining and the delivery of sustainable economic development to its impacted communities and the nation.
