Tolu Minerals has launched the Bakoiudu-Tolukuma Road Project in Central Province, Papua New Guinea. This crucial infrastructure initiative will connect the Kairuku and Goilala Districts, benefiting both the Tolukuma Mine and local communities.
Governor for Central Province, Hon. Rufina Peter, and Managing Director of the MRA, Mr. Jerry Garry, the Managing Director of Tunnel Engineering Ltd Allan Guo, and members of both the Kairuku and Goilala Districts attended the event along with local leaders, media representatives, and residents from both LLGs.
A Collaborative Effort
The project is a joint venture between Tolu Minerals, the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA), and various government bodies and local stakeholders. It has received strong support from the Central Province Government, Kairuku and Goilala Districts, and local leaders.
Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of Tolu Minerals Ltd, Iain Macpherson’s keynote address, highlighted the transformative potential of the road project, not just for the Tolukuma Mine but for the entire Central Province. “Physical infrastructure always supports economic development,” he stated.
“Roads, in particular, allow sustainable business operations, promote the exchange of goods and services, facilitate the movement of people and skills, and generally enhance economic activity. The mere fact that a road is going through is going to change the nature of the region. It’s going to make it of more interest to people coming in from outside.”
Transforming the Region
The road will significantly improve access to the Tolukuma Mine, reducing reliance on costly helicopter transport. It will also boost economic activity in the region, creating jobs and facilitating trade.
“The road has to be built for the future of the mine and for the future of the region,” Macpherson remarked.
Hon. Rufina Peter said, “This road has been here for a long time. We have to make use of it.”
“Today, it is a new initiative we came together to launch. The power to change our lives and livelihood is in our own hands, individually. We can’t sit and wait, watch the opportunity to pass us. It’s a good opportunity that this developers have come to develop our district. Let’s take it,” she added.
Two-Stage Construction
The project is divided into two phases:
- Pilot Road: Construction of a temporary gravel road to connect the mine to the Bakoiudu area. This stage is nearing completion.
- Upgrade: Upgrading the pilot road to a provincial standard, ensuring long-term benefits for the region.
“My objective is to have the first vehicle drive that road well before the end of this year,” Macpherson declared.
“Thank you for your support in the past, today, and in the future to get this project completed. For the benefit, not only of Tolu Minerals and Tolukuma Mine, but for the communities and the district and the region as a whole. And indeed, for the benefit of Papua New Guinea as a whole.”
Economic and Social Benefits
The road will:
- Reduce costs: Lower transportation costs for the Tolukuma Mine.
- Create jobs: Generate employment opportunities in the construction and mining sectors.
- Boost trade: Facilitate the movement of goods and services between regions.
- Improve access: Enhance access to markets for local agricultural products.
“With the right team, the right contractors, the right technology, I believe our plans to build and develop the regions will be successful.” Garry added.
A Catalyst for Development
The Bakoiudu-Tolukuma Road Project is a testament to the positive impact that responsible mining can have on local communities. It demonstrates Tolu Minerals' commitment to sustainable development and its role in driving progress in Papua New Guinea.
"The successful completion of the road will not only rejuvenate the Tolukuma Mine but also provide long-term economic benefits to the region, including employment opportunities and increased access to markets,” Macpherson said.
He reiterated, "We are absolutely committed to delivering this project and delivering the return of Tolukuma Mine and delivering the economic development of the entire region."
