Papua New Guinea’s Hongas Clan Empowers Locals Through Detunai Investment Limited
In a significant move towards empowering local communities, the Hongas Clan of Gregas Village in Papua New Guinea has established Detunai Investment Limited (DIL), a landowner-driven company aimed at creating business and employment opportunities along the Kiunga-Tabubil Highway. Representing landowners from the eastern bank of Kum Creek in Kiunga, where Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) operations are based, DIL seeks to transform locals from passive onlookers into active participants in the economic benefits of mining activities. This initiative follows decades of unresolved disputes, recently settled in court in favor of the Hongas Clan, paving the way for the community to finally reap tangible rewards from their land.
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| Papua New Guinea’s Hongas Clan Empowers Locals Through Detunai Investment Limited |
The soft launch of DIL was celebrated during a community event on April 22, attended by board members, church leaders, women, youth representatives, and families from the village. During the ceremony, new uniforms and a vehicle were handed over to DIL staff, symbolizing the company’s commitment to professionalism and progress. DIL Chairman Eka Swokin highlighted that the court ruling inspired the community to establish DIL, enabling them to benefit from OTML not only through jobs but also by addressing critical issues such as health and education. He urged OTML to prioritize DIL for contracts and business spin-offs, ensuring direct economic returns for the community.
Executive Director David Wawe expressed gratitude to Kayop Investment Limited and its Managing Director, Maino Lucas, for supporting DIL’s early operations, as well as Bernard Hwanawi for providing operational space to the fledgling company. Patoro Ako, Chairman of the Hongas Landowners Association, recounted the clan’s long legal battle leading to the registration of their Incorporated Land Group (ILG). He emphasized that with the Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) now in place, ventures like DIL must take precedence. “This is a company owned by landowners. OTML must recognize us during the upcoming review discussions; we deserve a seat at the table,” Mr. Ako stated.
Community leaders, including Ward Councilor Samson Swore, voiced strong support for DIL, encouraging young people to seize the employment opportunities it plans to provide. Swore urged collective backing from all local leadership for initiatives like this. Gregas Village VPC Chairman Wilson Obert noted that strengthening local businesses can help curb youth involvement in illegal activities while driving much-needed development. Women’s Representative Doris Brenden and Youth Leader Gilbert Peter echoed full support for DIL, with Peter affirming that village youth are motivated and ready to contribute to the company’s success.
Local landowners further criticized both OTML and government agencies for utilizing their land without proper acquisition for decades. They are now appealing to the provincial government to mediate and facilitate the awarding of full-scale contracts to DIL. Additionally, the landowners are advocating for a 7% stake in OTML, aligning with what other mine villages receive, pointing out that their land hosts the critical wharf used for shipping operations over the past 40 years.
The establishment of Detunai Investment Limited marks a pivotal moment for the Hongas Clan and surrounding communities, representing a shift toward sustainable local development. By addressing historical grievances and leveraging recent legal victories, DIL aims to tackle pressing issues such as health and education while fostering economic empowerment. With widespread support from community leaders, women, and youth, the company stands as a testament to a collective effort to ensure that the wealth generated from Papua New Guinea’s natural resources directly benefits those who own the land.
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