Pacific Promise: China's Impact in PNG Mining

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Chinese Ambassador to Papua New Guinea (PNG), Zeng Fanhua, highlighted the nickel and cobalt mine as the most significant Chinese investment in the Pacific. This substantial venture has not only bolstered the country's economic growth but has also triggered noticeable transformations in Madang Province. More than mere financial gains, it symbolizes the robust bilateral relations between China and PNG.

In January 2019, former National Planning Minister Richard Maru emphasized the responsibility of companies, including Ramu NiCo Management Limited (RNML), in developing infrastructure, healthcare, and education services within the Special Mining Lease (SML) areas. He stressed the imperative for mining companies to contribute more to these communities, aligning with their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to the State and its people.

Before Maru's announcement, RNML had implemented a staged Social and Economic Development Plan aimed at bolstering local communities. This plan, aligned with the Ramu Memorandum of Agreement and CSR practices, manifested in tangible ways. Notable achievements included the establishment of primary schools like Ganglau, Usino, and Naru, alongside Enekwai and Ileg health centers. The company also invested in crucial infrastructure such as police stations, office buildings, and utility connections in districts housing mining operations.

RNML's commitment extended beyond infrastructure to an Agriculture Development Plan (ADP), engaging Chinese experts to bolster cocoa and rice farming. They provided training in various agricultural areas like vegetable farming, vanilla cultivation, coconut processing, piggery production, and poultry and fish farming. Their investment in agriculture, evident in the distribution of cocoa seedlings, marked a substantial commitment to the ADP's objectives.

Additionally, the company's allocation of 2021 RNML royalty payments to purchase 12 new rice mills for 12 wards in the Gama Local Level Government area showcased successful rice farming efforts. This local rice production aims to diminish reliance on expensive imported rice, benefiting both the country and individual households.

RNML's CSR slogan, "One Ramu NiCo, One Community," mirrors the Chinese principle of "harmonious coexistence," reflecting in their inclusive approach. Their gender empowerment programs, focused on training females in SML areas, illustrate their dedication to bridging gender disparities and empowering women to support their families.

Ramu NiCo Updater Volume 16

In 2023, RNML escalated its CSR efforts by co-funding the Sir Peter Barter Education Scholarship with K3.9 million from recent royalty payments. This investment in Madang students attending tertiary institutions will drive societal and economic changes. Moreover, their collaborations with higher education institutions and support for initiatives like the Divine Word University rugby league team further underscore their commitment to fostering partnerships and sustainable projects.

Religious institutions also benefited from RNML's CSR initiatives, with one percent of the Ramu NiCo project's royalty payment allocated to church evangelism. Collaborations with the Coastal Pipeline Landowners Association to supply solar lights to churches in the Astrolabe Bay Local Level Government area showcased their collaboration with religious groups.

Since commencing operations, RNML has gradually supported communities in SML areas and Madang Province at large. Their CSR endeavours, documented in media reports and the regularly published Ramu NiCo Updater, depict their steadfast commitment to positive change and sustainable development.

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