Fifty-six women hailing from the Coastal Pipeline Landowner Women’s Association (CPLWA), situated within the Ramu Nickel Project vicinity, celebrated a significant milestone as they received their financial literacy training certificates.
The event took place at Erima Primary School recently, marking the culmination of their educational journey in the Astrolabe Bay Local Level Government (LLG) at Rai Coast District, within the Madang Province.
Initiated late last year, the training was part of the “Lukatim Graun Program” facilitated by the Ramu NiCo Management (MCC) Limited (RNML), specifically for the CPLWA Marika Zone members.
Albert Tobe, Deputy General Manager of Ramu NiCo Community Affairs, expressed satisfaction at CPLWA’s participation in the financial literacy training.
He emphasized the importance of such training in equipping landowners to manage their royalty portions effectively and encouraged financial institutions to streamline lending requirements for small-scale entrepreneurs.
Mrs. Jayanne Malai, the Financial Literacy Program Course Trainer, highlighted the long-standing support provided by Ramu NiCo to CPLWA, particularly in promoting the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Malai envisioned a future where CPLWA members would diversify their investments beyond reliance on royalty payments, thereby securing their financial stability even after the mine’s eventual closure.
Ward Councilor, Garry Kulonga of Ward 13, under the Astrolabe Bay Rural LLG Council, commended the CPLWA for their proactive approach to economic empowerment.
He acknowledged the association’s successful ventures into various businesses such as dinghies, trade stores, and fuel sales, emphasizing the natural aptitude of women in managing household finances.
Furthermore, Kulonga emphasized the significance of financial literacy training, particularly for illiterate women in rural villages, enabling them to access financial assistance and foster personal and community growth.
He lauded CPLWA’s continuous progress and underscored the importance of the certificates received by the women, as they serve as prerequisites for engaging with financial institutions.
Meanwhile, the ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of these women, but also symbolized a step towards sustainable economic development and empowerment within the CPLWA community.