Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Physical Planning, John Rosso has announced that his department will soon issue Instrument of Disposition (IOD) certificates to Kamkumung and Ahi landowners, aimed at supporting structured land management and development.
The IOD certificates are official titles that outline land boundaries, ownership, and planning terms.
The initiative, in collaboration with the Kumkumung leaders, Ahi tribe, Ahi Investment Group, and the University of Technology, will involve identifying land, issuing IOD titles, and developing infrastructure, including roads.
Rosso emphasized the program’s focus on cooperative land development, discouraging landowners from selling parcels for minimal returns.
“Kamkumung will serve as a pilot model, with plans to extend the program to other communities with customary landowners.”
Funding support will come from the Lands Department, Lae City Authority, and partner investment groups.
Meanwhile, Rosso reminded the landowners that while the government aids in the transaction process, the ultimate responsibility lies with them.
He also urged new residents to respect community norms to maintain harmony.