The ExxonMobil PNG announced the handover and inauguration of the Papa Courthouse in Papa Village, Central Province.
The event marked an important milestone critical toward national efforts to strengthen and stabilizing Law and Order in the nation, in this case, in Papa and its surrounding communities.
LNG Plant Manager Mr. Brent Decker, who participated in the handover stated, “EMPNG recognizes the critical role village courts play in PNG’s legal system as they bring justice directly to communities.”
“The ability to resolve disputes locally, without traveling to distant courts, directly contributes to strengthening communities and preserving community harmony.”
Decker thanked key partners like local Ward Councillors, Papa Village community leaders, Central Province Authorities, the local umbrella LANCO Laba Holdings, Gas Resources PNGLNG Plant Ltd, MRDC, and the local community for their collaboration and hard work to deliver this and other projects for the community.
Decker expressed gratitude to various key partners, including local Ward Councillors, Papa Village community leaders, Central Province Authorities, LANCO Laba Holdings, Gas Resources PNGLNG Plant Ltd, MRDC, and the local community, for their collaboration and hard work in delivering projects for the community.
The new courthouse contains multiple office spaces to accommodate not only the community Magistrate and Court Clerk, but also to provide a safe space for victims of gender-based violence or issues relating to vulnerable groups in the society.
Alphonse Nao Nunu, Papa Ward 14 Councillor, expressed gratitude to EMPNG for funding the new Papa Courthouse, stating that it will replace the traditional practice of holding court sessions under trees and improve the morale and efficiency of village Magistrates and Peace Officers by providing them with a proper facility.
“These developments are not just physical structures but symbols of hope, progress and the collective efforts of dedicated individuals and organizations.”
“And it should be noted that this new court facility will also support the Lealea community.” Nao added.
ExxonMobil PNG (EMPNG), the operator of the PNG LNG Project, is committed to improving the lives of people in its project areas, such as Papa, and across the nation through its community development investment initiatives.
The ceremony also marked the opening of a new double-storey classroom at Papa Junior High School, which will provide grade 10 students with a better learning environment and a new staff house for the principal to ensure teacher welfare.
EMPNG has invested over PGK108 million in community programs across the Papa community and several provinces since 2015, focusing on women’s training and business development, improving education, and supporting health and wellbeing initiatives.