The National Identification registration has been completed in the isolated villages in the footprint of the Sepik Development Project in Telefomin and Ambunti, thanks to Frieda River Limited (FRL).

FRL arranged for NID officers to be transported from Vanimo to its Frieda River site, from where they were flown by helicopter to the far-flung villages of Sokamin, Wameimin 1 and 2, Amaromin, Ok Isai, and Wabia.  They also covered Paupe in East Sepik’s Ambunti district. Over 2,300 people, including men, women, youth, children, and infants were registered. Those 18 and older underwent biometric testing and will receive NID cards reflecting their biometric data.

The Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) encourages mining projects to register their landowners with the PNG Civil Registry. In this way, they will be able to participate in state-led processes, such as the creation and establishment of landowner associations and landowner development companies.

Sokamin villagers like Tanis Sibou, Temas Philimon, Dramen Imeyesep, and Desim Metulas (pictured) expressed their gratitude, delighted that every resident was able to be registered despite the lack of government services in their area. They are now eagerly anticipating the arrival of their NID cards.

Dr Joel Hamago, FRL’s Country Manager, explained, “Accessing the seven villages in our project footprint is no easy feat; the only way to reach them is by helicopter, canoe, or on foot, with days of trekking between each location. The company helicopter was used to overcome this challenge.”

He said that FRL was proud to support the government in completing the NID process for the hard-to-reach communities adding that the initiative was also vital for the FRL’s next phase of development.

Despite the challenging terrain and unpredicted weather, the NID exercise for the Frieda River catchment communities was completed in just 13 days.

Featured picture description: The job of the NID officer (in orange vest) in registering Sokamin villagers in remote Telefomin was made possible by Frieda River Limited.

Picture 1 description: Sokamin women understand the importance of having NID cards and are thankful to FRL for helping them and their families to register. Left to right: Tanis Sibou, Temas Philomon, Dramen Imeyesep, Desim Metulas and FRL Senior Lands Officer Veronica Biwa.