The Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF) Board has officially welcomed Mr. Nathan Samuel as its newest Associate Director following the completion of a formal appointment process.
Mr. Samuel joins the OTDF Board as the representative of the North Fly Trust regions, a significant milestone aimed at ensuring greater representation and input from regional stakeholders. A respected leader from the Tutuwe Trust region, Mr. Samuel brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role, which aligns with his longstanding commitment to community-driven development in the Western Province.
He said: “I have been playing leadership roles in the Tutuwe Trust and this is an added bonus to my leadership roles and I am humbled to be nominated and appointed to the OTDF Board as an Associate Director representing North Fly mine impacted communities, thank you for having that faith and trust in me”.
Mr. Samuel was the former Chairman of the CMCA Syndicate Advisory Committee. He currently serves as the lead delegate for the Tutuwe CMCA review working group, and the Chairman of Gii Village Planning Committee. His leadership on the CMCA (Community Mine Continuation Agreement) platform highlights his dedication to overseeing and driving initiatives that deliver tangible benefits to local communities. The appointment further strengthens the links between the OTDF and regional trust entities, ensuring the continued alignment of community needs and developmental goals.
The OTDF Board plays a pivotal role in providing leadership and governance whilst overseeing the Ok Tedi Development Foundation’s initiatives, which are designed to deliver sustainable development across the Western Province. The inclusion of representatives like Mr. Samuel reflects OTDF’s commitment to inclusive governance and participatory decision-making. It ensures that community trust representatives have a direct voice in guiding policies and projects that impact the region.
The formalisation of Mr. Samuel’s appointment follows a rigorous process aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability. His selection not only acknowledges his leadership qualities but also his deep understanding of the CMCA and the needs and priorities of the impacted communities.
Mr. Samuel’s leadership and wealth of experience positions him well to contribute meaningfully to the OTDF Board. The CMCA platform plays a crucial role in facilitating community participation in resource-driven development projects, and Mr. Samuel’s involvement has been integral in driving initiatives that prioritise sustainable outcomes.
The OTDF’s development agenda focuses on empowering local communities through a variety of projects in education, health, infrastructure, and livelihood programs. With the inclusion of Mr. Samuel, there is optimism that his contributions will further strengthen the Foundation’s efforts to meet the expectations of North Fly Trust beneficiaries and the broader Western Province.
The OTDF Board and its stakeholders extend their congratulations to Mr. Samuel on his appointment and look forward to his valuable input in advancing the Foundation’s mission. His leadership and representation will play a key role in ensuring that development projects remain responsive to the needs of the communities they serve.