Morobe landowners plan to launch association

By EREBIRI ZURENUOC
THE landowners of a section of the proposed pipeline corridor of the Wafi-Golpu project in Morobe plan to form an association.
The interim executives of the Wampar Pipeline Landowners Association in the Wampar local level government of Huon Gulf district are working with the Wafi-Golpu Joint Venture community affairs and lands team to form the association.
WGJV Community Affairs manager David Masani said it was the first time a developer in the mining sector was setting up associations outside the proposed Special Mining Lease (SML) area, and prior to any proposed mining activity.
“Usually landowner associations are established after production begins, and when royalties are paid,” he said.
“The landowners use their own money to establish their associations, register them and venture into business and others.
“But for WGJV, our priority is the people. The people in their communities must be ready to take part in development activities, and leaders must be ready to represent their people.
“This is one way we can get this project to benefit all stakeholders and the next generation, if and when the project is permitted by the government.”
Masani said the 130km pipeline which would run through Wampar covered seven communities and 32 clans. The pipeline communities include Chiats/Mafanazo, Tararan, Zifasing, Gabsongkeg, Nasuapum, Munum and Yalu.