By Sharlyne Eri – EMTV News, Lae
Landowners of the Wafi Golpu Project have raised concerns on the lack of awareness on Incorporated Land Groups in the area. This concern was raised last Friday, during the distribution of NID cards to members of the four clans under Hengabu.
ILG forms were also distributed during that time, however, raised confusions among landowners. During the occasion, members of the four clans, Elmun, Dengmago, Gwago and Tuko, were presented with their NID cards and certificates.
The Bulolo District Administration funded this initiative, to prepare landowners to work towards getting their ILG certificates. Bulolo District Administrator, Tae Gumbelek, said it was appropriate that ILG forms be distributed at the same time.
However, a landowner, Kailes Geo, said trying to get an ILG certificate might raise disputes among the existing clans. Mr Geo added that trying to get an ILG certificate might also delay the development of the Wafi Golpu Project. He appealed for more time for awareness.
On the other hand the registrar of ILGs, Iruna Rogakila said enough awareness has been done since the ILG Act was passed in 2009.
Other landowners also questioned why they needed an ILG certificate when NID cards already proved their ties to a clan.
The District Administrator explained that NID and ILGs go hand in hand. He said both would allow for the beneficiaries of Wafi Golpu Project – Yanta and Hengabu to get an equal share.
