A potential new mining reserve area has been suggested by the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) as part of efforts to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach to resource development in the region.
The proposal would see a 465 square-kilometres area set up in the Eivo-Torau-Torokina region, intended to guide the orderly development of the sector whilst also safeguarding national interests.
Announced by ABG President and Minister for Mining Ishmael Toroama, the reserve’s purpose would restrict new exploration and mining-related applications, in line with government strategies and planning, and would focus on development of existing projects – particularly the Panguna project.
Earmarked as a continued economic priority, the Panguna project has not been operational since 1989.
Toroama also raised concerns regarding increasing competition among companies seeking exploration licences in the region, noting its potential impact on community cohesion.
“We have also observed that competing commercial interests from multiple companies applying for exploration licences in these areas have been creating divisions and disunity within our communities,” he said.
“This is a matter of serious concern, and the government is taking a responsible approach to manage this situation in a way that preserves unity, social stability and national interest.”
In addition, it’s understood the new mining reserve will enable ABG to progress key legislative reforms that are currently being processed.
“The proposed reserve will also provide government with the necessary policy space to complete the current review and amendment of the Bougainville Mining Act 2015, ensuring that any future development is governed by a strong, modern and fit-for purpose legal framework,” Toroama said.
Public consultations on the proposal are currently underway.
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