Prime Minister James Marape has praised Western Governor Taboi Awi Yoto and the people of Western Province for their unified effort in successfully completing and signing the 12th Ok Tedi Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) Review.

Witnessing the signing, Prime Minister Marape hailed the event as a significant milestone for Papua New Guinea’s resource sector.

The agreement, he stated, ensures that communities impacted by mining operations are not just consulted, but meaningfully engaged and empowered.

The Prime Minister specifically commended Governor Yoto and the leaders of both the CMCA and non-CMCA communities for their "true leadership and cooperation," acknowledging the people as the "rightful custodians" of the land.

He emphasized that the directly affected CMCA communities provide the crucial “social license” that allows the Ok Tedi mine to operate responsibly.

“These people are the heart of the project. They give the license for the mine to continue to operate despite environmental sensitivities.”

“Without their consent and participation, we could not move forward.”

Prime Minister Marape clarified that the 12th CMCA Review Agreement is not a rigid or final document, but a "living framework" designed to evolve with the people's changing needs and aspirations.

“This agreement is not set in stone; it is not the ten Commandments.”

He assured that the framework will be revisited and realigned annually to ensure it continuously improves people's lives.

The transition to the 13th Review, he added, must guarantee tangible benefits flow directly to the people of Western Province.

Under the 12th Review, the Prime Minister highlighted a monumental increase in the value of benefits for landowners and affected communities, which have more than doubled compared to previous arrangements.

“We have delivered over a 100 per cent increase in the value of benefits.”

However, he coupled this good news with an appeal for greater responsibility, urging the people to use the funds wisely, investing in better homes, supporting their children's education, and developing their communities.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment, Prime Minister Marape pledged to support Western Province and other resource-rich regions through fair benefit-sharing, sustainable development, and transparent management of mining revenues.

“Our goal is simple, to make sure that the wealth from the ground transforms into real improvements on the ground.”

His vision is for Western Province to be known not only for its resources, but for its “thriving, healthy, and empowered communities.”