In a commendable display of corporate social responsibility, Ramu NiCo, the mining company operating in the Kurumbukari Mine area, recently contributed thousands of Kina worth of medicine supplies to the Enakuai Village Clinic.
The generous donation, facilitated through the company’s ongoing Community Development Fund (CDF) scheme, was handed over on Sunday, January 7, 2024.
The initiative stemmed from a late 2023 request by the Kurumbukari Landowners Association (KBK LOA) to Ramu NiCo Management (MCC) Limited (RNML).
Mr. Albert Tobe, Deputy General Manager of RNML Community Affairs (CA), commended the KBK LOA for their prudent decision to utilize the CDF scheme for procuring essential medicines for the local community.
Traditionally, RNML has been delivering quarterly medicines to clinics situated along the project corridor, as per the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOA).
However, the recent surge in the population of KBK neighbouring villages necessitated additional support.
Mr. Tobe acknowledged that the quarterly supply was no longer sufficient to meet the healthcare needs of the growing population.
Expressing optimism, Mr. Tobe stated that the Enakuai Village Clinic is now well-equipped with an ample supply of medicines, ensuring improved healthcare services for the local residents.
KBK LOA Deputy Chairman, Mr. John Tigavu, highlighted the historical support provided by RNML to the clinic, emphasizing the quarterly medical assistance received since the mine’s inception.
He clarified that the CDF scheme, while not explicitly outlined in the MOA, reflects RNML’s voluntary commitment to uplift communities along the project corridor.
Since its initiation in 2019, the scheme has funded various community projects, including sponsoring students, constructing classrooms and aid posts, procuring vital medicines, and building roads in KBK neighbouring areas.
Mr. Tigavu urged residents of Enakuai and surrounding communities to take ownership of their services and contribute to maintaining a conducive social environment for RNML’s development efforts.
Meanwhile in appreciation of RNML’s consistent support, Mr. Kop Koiti, Officer Incharge of Enakuai Village Clinic, expressed gratitude for the ongoing assistance provided by the company since 2011.
He pledged to work diligently to ensure the well-being of the villagers, acknowledging the significant impact of RNML’s recent medicine donation.