The total number of completed infrastructure projects across the mine- villages has reached 15, following the official handover of two new houses in Wangbin village on Friday, 13 June.
These projects were funded using their Village Development Funds (VDFs) administered under a special mine agreement by the Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) and managed by the Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF).
The event in Wangbin marked a continuing milestone in OTDF’s commitment to improving living standards in the mine-impacted communities.
Wangbin Councillor Mr. Samuel Mereng, speaking on behalf of the community and new homeowners, thanked OTDF for its consistent support.
“The standard upheld by OTDF in delivering projects, especially in financial management, sets a benchmark for transparency,” he said. “Despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical challenges, OTDF has delivered. We ask for continued partnership and cooperation from all stakeholders.”
Mr. Mereng also encouraged the Wangbin community to support OTDF by engaging constructively in development processes.
“Let’s stop relying on handouts and start taking ownership of our future. The VDFs are here to help us, and OTDF is the vehicle to deliver. Let’s use it wisely.”
OTDF Acting CEO, Mr. Andrew Mari, acknowledged community concerns and reaffirmed OTDF’s commitment to working closely with local leaders.
“While we cannot meet every expectation at once, we can address key priorities through proper planning,” Mr. Mari said. “I urge Wangbin leaders to develop a five-year community development plan. This plan will be a roadmap to guide the implementation of projects in Wangbin village. Having a shared vision and well-coordinated approach is essential for meaningful progress.”
He praised the leadership within Wangbin, saying their unity and cooperation are helping drive visible improvements. Mr. Mari also encouraged homeowners to take responsibility for maintaining their new houses and highlighted the need for stronger investment in education.
“Education is the key to long-term development,” he said. “We urge communities to consider using VDFs to support students pursuing higher and technical education.”
According to OTDF infrastructure records, 15 projects have now been delivered across the mine villages: Finalbin (5 houses), Atemkit (2 houses), Kavorabip (5 houses), Wangbin (2 houses), and Migalsim (a 3-in-1 classroom).
Three additional houses have already been approved for Wangbin, along with the construction of a perimeter fence for Wangbin Primary School, which is set to begin in the coming months.