Mine conducts local census

OK Tedi Mining Ltd (OTML) continues to engage with the local communities in Western to ensure the people are aware of the mine’s operations.
OTML recently concluded two programmes significant to its commitment to engage with the communities in the Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) regions.
Superintendent, sustainability planning and CMCA, Michael Miise said these programmes included the communications and consultation patrol (CC patrol) and the CMCA census update covering the nine CMCA regions from the North Fly to the South Fly.
“Both programmes are key activities under the CMCA Agreement, which gives OTML the communities’ informed consent and social licence to operate,” he said.
“Collaborating with our stakeholders to run the programmes is paramount to the success of these initiatives.
“By bringing all stakeholders together, we create a conducive environment for open dialogue and the opportunity to address issues directly in the villages.
“This effort allows us to address concerns, answer questions, and strengthen our relationships with the communities that have placed their trust in us and gave us the social licence to operate through the CMCAs.
“These programmes serve as tangible evidence of our commitment to honouring our agreement with the CMCA communities and fostering positive relationships with the communities we serve.
“The support and cooperation we have received from the communities thus far has been positive,” Miise added.
The CC patrol and census update began on April 28 and ended on July 12, covering the CMCA regions in the following order: Kiwaba, Dudi, Manawete, Suki Fly Gogo and Middle Fly.
The Lower Ok Tedi, North Ok Tedi, Highway were done earlier while the mine villages (mine lease area) were conducted after.
“A total of 158 villages have been visited and an updated population figure of nearly 160,000 has been recorded,” Miise said.