Achieving selfreliance, health and quality of life in Papua New Guinea’s Western Province communities
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CMCA Trusts Secure Professional Fund Management with Signing of Investment Management Agreement
Signing Ceremony of the IMA document – Hilton Hotel, Port Moresby
Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF) as Statutory Manager of the future generation funds for the eight Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) Trust regions facilitated the signing of the Investment Management Agreement (IMA) between the leaders representing the 8 CMCA Trust and Kina Wealth Management Limited (KWML).
The Agreement, signed in Port Moresby, formalizes the appointment of Kina Wealth Management Limited as the exclusive Investment Manager of the CMCA Trust Investment Portfolios. Kina Nominees Limited will act as Custodian, safeguarding assets in accordance with the Trusts’ investment objectives.
The IMA outlines a conservative, transparent, and compliance-focused investment strategy aimed at delivering sustainable returns to the beneficiary communities of the CMCA regions of Western Province. The portfolios will be directed toward investment into secured assets such as Government Bonds and Bills, and high-performing blue-chip equities on the PNG and Australian stock exchange, with strong governance and reporting mechanism through quarterly and annual reporting.
Mr. Ivan Vidovich, Group CEO & Managing Director of Kina Securities Limited, remarked: “We are honoured to be entrusted with managing the CMCA Trusts investment portfolios. At Kina, we are committed to delivering professional fund management that aligns with the Trusts’ values and objectives. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to building lasting economic value for the CMCA communities through disciplined and transparent investment practices.”
Mr. Jesse Pile, Chairman of the OTDF Board, said: “Today’s signing is a pivotal milestone for the CMCA Trusts. This agreement strengthens the governance and integrity of how these community assets are managed. It is a demonstration of OTDF’s commitment to ensuring that every kina is accounted and better managed for the future of the mine associated communities of Western Province.”
Mr. Andrew Mari, Acting CEO of OTDF, added: “This partnership ensures a professionally managed, well-diversified investment approach that aligns with the aspirations of our CMCA beneficiaries. It is a critical step towards achieving long-term sustainability and growth of the trust funds under OTDF’s management.”
The IMA is effective from 30 April 2025 and remains in place unless terminated by mutual agreement or under specific provisions outlined in the Agreement.
This strategic collaboration marks a new chapter in the management of the CMCA Trust portfolios and ensures that the communities of Western Province continue to benefit from prudent, secure, and future-focused investment of their trust funds.
OTDF signs vehicle lease with local women investment company
In a simple but momentous program for a women-led enterprise in the Western Province, Suki Fly Gogo Women & Children’s Investment Limited (SFGWCI LTD) presented a new 5-door Toyota Land Cruiser to Ok Tedi Development Foundation on 13 May in Kiunga.
Following the presentation and handover of keys, the Vehicle Lease Agreement was signed between Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF) and the women investment company for OTDF to use the vehicle for its operations.
The leased vehicle will support operational mobility in delivering community programs in Kiunga. This lease agreement signifies OTDF’s partnership reflecting the ongoing collaboration between OTDF and community-based investment companies to empower women and foster sustainable local enterprise for community for growth and development.
The handover and signing were witnessed by the four women presidents of the South Fly trust regions, the staff and a/ CEO of Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF), President for Suki Fly Gogo Women Association, Saridu Saudi thanked OTDF Trust Administration and Business Development team for their dedication and effort to seeing the company grow.
She said “It has been a journey to get our investments in place. I am proud to see this investment come through. I also want to thank OTDF Business Development Team for their guidance and perseverance in seeing this investment through.”
This marks the third major investment milestone for the Suki Fly Gogo Women & Children’s Investment Limited, reaffirming the company’s growing presence and confidence in local economic development initiatives.
External Director to the investment company, Mr. Raphael Nali, also expressed his excitement during the signing:
“I am so proud to see what we discussed at meetings become a reality. As Directors, we understand the capabilities of the company. That’s why we push for the manifestation of decisions made at the board level.”
OTDF a/CEO commended the leadership and determination shown by the women of Suki Fly Gogo, noting this as a model for other regional groups aiming to harness their collective strength for tangible, long-term benefits. Mr. Andrew Mari in his keynote speech says:
“It is a proud moment to see board decisions and discussions translate into tangible projects. Your investments add value to decision making process in the future. With the limitation in funding, you have done extremely well, and I acknowledge my hard working staff for their endless commitment to serve the communities, especially the effort of the Trust and BD Team in facilitating this investment.”
Official handover of the keys to a/CEO Mr. Mari at the OTDF Office car park, brown house 2
OTDF a/CEO commended the leadership and determination shown by the women of Suki Fly Gogo, noting this as a model for other regional groups aiming to harness their collective strength for tangible, long-term benefits. Mr. Andrew Mari in his keynote speech says:
“It is a proud moment to see board decisions and discussions translate into tangible projects. Your investments add value to decision making process in the future. With the limitation in funding, you have done extremely well, and I acknowledge my hard working staff for their endless commitment to serve the communities, especially the effort of the Trust and BD Team in facilitating this investment.”
The event ended with the handover of the car keys to the OTDF a/CEO and signing of the lease agreement at the OTDF carpark, brown house 2.
OTML and Nine Women & Children Associations Unveil Major Investment with New Campsite
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.
Who We Are
Each executive and board member, team and individual involved with OTDF is an essential part of achieving the goal of allowing the residents of Western Province to have greater choices in mapping out their own direction to live better lives.
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What We Do
Operating independently of OTML since 2009, we are proud to have 50 full-time staff, 60 part-time staff, and committed volunteers throughout Western Province dedicated to ensuring our objectives and goals are aligned with those of the communities for which we serve.
To date, we have achieved significant outcomes across our investment portfolio and all five pillars of CMCA community development.
Economic Development
From inception as an independent organisation in 2010, OTDF has worked tirelessly with the CMCA communities to establish family and village-based economic and food production options.
Women's & Youth Development
Developing women and youth aspirations following the intensive consultative community engagement in the communities and mine villages.
Infrastructure Development
OTDF continues to focus on infrastructure delivery for communities to gain easier access to regional centres and government services, and to get produce to markets.
Community Health
The OTDF Strategic 5-year plan goal for the Health Sector is the CMCA primary health care service delivery strengthened and in line with the Western Province & National Health Plans.
Community Education
The OTDF Education Sector goals are to improve to quality education services, improve teacher education and training.
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Western Province
North Fly District
Middle Fly District
South Fly District
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Our latest Annual Report is a comprehensive report of what OTDF has achieved and defines/outlines our ongoing priorities and goals going forward.
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Each month, our OTDF media team creates a PDF newsletter that encapsulates the many activities and achievements by OTDF, partners and communities.
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