MT KARE LANDOWNERS CALL FOR IMMEDIATE, LOCALLY-LED DEVELOPMENT AND DECISIVE GOVERNMENT ACTION
Chief landowner Simon Kambe insert workers at Mt Kare- File picture
Chief Landowner Simon Kambe of Mt Kare has issued a public appeal to the Prime Minister, James Marape, and his government regarding the future development of the Mt. Kare Gold Project and the continued absence of essential government services in the region.
Speaking on behalf of his people, Chief Kambe emphasized the urgent need for a capable, Papua New Guinean-owned company one with proven financial capacity and an established local presence to lead the development of Mt Kare.
He stressed that priority should be given to a developer that is ready to commence work immediately, without reliance on offshore financing or prolonged capital-raising processes.
“I am appealing to the Prime Minister to seriously consider our plea and grant the licence to a reputable Papua New Guinean company that understands our people and has the capacity to deliver,” said Chief Kambe.
“I am the last Chief Landowner. Many of my brothers who fought for this project are no longer with us. I want to see development and benefits realised for our people within my lifetime.” Chief Kambe reaffirmed that any development must guarantee meaningful participation and long-term benefits for landowners, including a secured 10 percent equity and royalty interest from exploration through to full production.
He noted, must be embedded and protected within all formal project agreements.
He further highlighted the ongoing lack of basic government services in Mt. Kare, describing the situation as unacceptable in the face of the area’s vast resource potential. Communities continue to face challenges in accessing infrastructure, employment opportunities, and essential services.
“We are not asking for promises we are asking for real development that delivers tangible outcomes,” Kambe stated.
“Development must respect our customs, protect our environment, and ensure fair and transparent engagement with our people at every stage.” Chief Kambe also called on the Prime Minister to uphold the spirit and intent of the Government’s “Take Back PNG” policy by prioritising local ownership, empowering national developers, and ensuring that the economic benefits of Mt Kare remain within Papua New Guinea.
“A locally-led project, backed by a developer that is ready and capable today, will deliver faster results, create jobs, and build infrastructure while keeping the wealth of Mt Kare within our country for future generations,” he added.
The Mt. Kare leadership believes that decisive government action at this stage will not only unlock the full potential of the project but also set a national precedent for responsible, inclusive, and locally-driven resource development.
