The nine Women & Children Associations (W&CA) of the Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) region (W&C) invested K5.2 million towards the development of the newly named Kedi Illimbet Donga. The facility named after the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer will house 150 workers at the OTML Bige operational site along the Ok Tedi River in North Fly.
This initiative marks a pioneering business venture by the Women & Children Association (W&CA) with Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) and reinforces a long-term commitment to economic empowerment and sustainable growth under the Women & Children Association Revised five year strategic plan.
The project, a collaborative effort between W&CA, the LMP 79 landowners, and the Alice River Trust (ATR), was successfully managed and delivered by OTML Bige Operations in partnership with local contractor LBL. The newly constructed Kedi Illimbet Donga is a vital infrastructure development that facilitates investment opportunities and strengthens business ties between the community and OTML.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, President for Middle Fly Women & Children Association (MFWCA) Ms. Charlotte Matthews highlighted the importance of this milestone:
“The completion and opening of the 150 men Donga is a proud moment for the Women & Children Associations. This is our first investment with OTML, and I stand here representing nine W&C investment companies that have collectively contributed to this achievement. We look forward to further investment opportunities that will drive economic growth and empower our communities.”
L-R: Mr Naimen Kepan OTML Bige Operations Manager, Mr. Kedi Illimbit OTML CEO/MD cutting the ribbon to reveal the 150men donga, looking on is Mr. Jesse Pile OTML General Manager Social Performance and Sustainability
Ms. Matthews reaffirmed the association’s commitment to fostering sustainable development. Ms. Bala Tedumo, representing the LMP79 landowners, emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating that it represents a strong and evolving partnership with OTML, paving the way for broader economic participation by local stakeholders.
Alice River Trust representative Mr. Isaiah Maun further acknowledged the indirect benefits of such projects, reinforcing the association’s support for OTML’s business operations and its role in advancing community led development.
Mr. Andrew Mari OTDF Executive Manager Programs Services and Acting Chief Executive Officer expressed gratitude to OTML Bige Operations for their committed support in delivering the project, stating, “The right leadership at the right time has turned this vision into reality. True leadership and commitment have been instrumental in achieving this milestone.”
Similarly, Mr. Jesse Pile OTML General Manager Social Performance and Sustainability highlighted the importance of continued collaboration: “This marks the beginning of many promising developments. By working together under the leadership of Kedi OTML Managing Director / Chief Executive Office , we are opening doors to increased investment and economic resilience.”
Interior of the rooms in the new Illimbit donga, modelling the new era, 2025 & beyond
Mr. Steve Hoap OTML Manager Economic Programs mentioned that the need for ongoing advocacy for sustainable initiatives that ensure long-term community prosperity.
Kedi Illimbit OTML MD/ CEO in his keynote speech encouraged local companies to explore investment opportunities with OTML:
“We want revenue to circulate back to our communities. Today, we see the construction of dongas; tomorrow, we envision power lines and broader infrastructure development. I urge local businesses to consider investing with OTML, if you take the initiative, I will meet you halfway.”
This project underscores OTML’s commitment to inclusivity and the economic advancement of CMCA communities. OTML representatives reiterated their dedication to fostering sustainable business opportunities that benefit local stakeholders.
“When OTML supports its people and communities, we encourage everyone to rally behind these efforts to create lasting impact. We sincerely thank the three investing entities—W&C Association, LMP 79 landowners, and Alice River Trust—for their contribution to this landmark initiative,” Illimbet stated.
The Women & Children Association and its partners have set a precedent for strategic, community-led investment. This achievement signals the beginning of broader economic opportunities that will drive sustainable growth and prosperity for future generations.
This investment opportunity involves a 50 percent stake valued at K5.3 million in OTML’s 150-men accommodation project at its Bige Operations.
The other 50 percent ownership is equally split between the Alice River Trust (15 Beneficiary Villages) and LMP79 (7 Beneficiary Landholding Clans) at 25 percent shares respectively.