Marape commends Porgera’s peaceful new year, pledges stability and prosperity

Prime Minister James Marape has lauded the people of Porgera for welcoming the New Year peacefully, emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to stability and economic progress in the region.

“Porgera’s quiet and peaceful New Year’s Eve is a positive and encouraging sign for a community that has faced significant challenges in recent years.

“This calm provides a foundation for renewed hope and progress in Porgera as we mark Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence,” said Prime Minister Marape.

The reopening of the Porgera Gold Mine in December 2023 has injected fresh economic vitality into the area, with the mine expected to drive community development and national growth.

“The reopening of the Porgera Gold Mine is a milestone for Papua New Guinea. It revitalizes our economy and provides livelihoods and infrastructure development opportunities for the people of Porgera and Enga Province," he said.

Meanwhile acknowledging past lawlessness in the region, Marape pledged decisive action to maintain security.

“Stability is the cornerstone of progress. Additional security forces have been deployed to safeguard the community and the mine’s operations. Lawlessness will not be tolerated,” he said.

The Prime Minister called for unity, urging Porgera’s residents and the nation to seize the opportunities presented by the mine’s reopening.

“Our strength lies in our unity. Let us work hand in hand to build a Porgera defined by peace, development, and shared prosperity,” he said.

He thanked local leaders and communities for fostering a safer environment, promising that the government would prioritize their needs and ensure resource benefits reach all.

“Together, we will transform challenges into opportunities,” he said.