Negotiations for the Community Development Agreement (CDA) of the Central Cement and Lime Project commenced on Jan. 30 in Port Moresby for the project in the Hiri-Koiari District of Central Province, Papua New Guinea.
Officials said the discussions are expected to last at least a week, bringing together key stakeholders to finalize agreements on benefits for impacted communities.
Key issues under negotiation include royalties, Special Support Grants (SSG), the Tax Credit Scheme, a Business Development Plan (which involves spin-off benefits and contracts for landowners), and infrastructure development.
These agreements will outline how the project will contribute to the economic growth of the region and improve the livelihoods of impacted communities.
The CDA negotiations involve the Kido Landowners Association, Rearea Landowners Association, Hiri Rural Local Level Government, Central Provincial Government, the State, and developer Mayur Resources Limited.
The first two days of negotiations were attended by Central Governor Hon. Rufina Peter and Member for Hiri-Koiari Hon. Keith Iduhu at Kwalimu Haus.
Both leaders expressed their strong support for the project, emphasizing its potential to significantly impact on the district, province, and the nation. They reassured stakeholders they were committed to ensuring landowners and local communities benefit from the development.
The National Government anticipates the CDA will be signed within the first quarter of this year. This milestone is expected to be one of the key highlights of PNG’s 50th Independence anniversary celebrations alongside major resource projects such as Porgera and Wafi-Golpu.
