Apaka Consultancy Services recently visited the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) office to raise concerns regarding illegal mining activities occurring within Manki Village, Watut Local Level Government (LLG), in Bulolo District.
During the visit, our team met with Acting Registrar of Mineral Tenements, Mr. Bobby Yavi, and formally reported the illegal mining activities affecting local communities. The discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that mining operations are conducted responsibly, within the framework of Papua New Guinea’s laws and regulations, and in a manner that protects the rights and interests of landowners and surrounding communities.
As part of our ongoing commitment to community development and legal awareness, Apaka Consultancy Services will soon begin engagement activities across Watut LLG. These efforts aim to strengthen community understanding of mining-related issues and provide residents with access to accurate information regarding their rights, responsibilities, and opportunities within the sector.
We are also exploring opportunities to collaborate with the Wau Small Scale Mining Training Centre to deliver awareness programs on alluvial mining throughout Watut LLG. The proposed partnership seeks to educate local communities on responsible alluvial mining practices, environmental stewardship, safety measures, and regulatory compliance.
The awareness initiative is expected to extend across Bulolo District, reaching communities that are directly or indirectly impacted by small-scale and alluvial mining activities. Through education and community engagement, we hope to empower local residents with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and actively participate in discussions surrounding resource development within their areas.
Apaka Consultancy Services remains committed to promoting legal awareness, community empowerment, and sustainable development throughout Papua New Guinea. We look forward to working closely with government agencies, training institutions, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure that mining activities contribute positively to local development while protecting the interests of future generations.