Ramu NiCo is a world class nickel and cobalt mine operation that relies heavily on a massive fleet of machinery to maintain optimal output.

Among the most critical assets are the fleets of heavy Volvo trucks that transport mined soil in Kurumbukari and limestone from the pit at Basamuk. Ensuring these vehicles and the company’s light vehicles are fully insured, registered, and compliant with statutory requirements is a monumental task.

The man responsible for this crucial duty is Francis Kari, who ensures all 2,000-plus units in the Ramu NiCo fleet are permitted for safe and legal operation.

Kari, 48, from Giri in Bogia District, Madang Province, is a silent achiever. His dream was to become a lawyer but nature didn’t allow Kari hit that road. Instead, He was hired by Ramu NiCo as an administration officer in the transport department.

Those passing through Wagol Fikus Street near the Handy Mart Fuel Station between 7am and 8am will not miss Kari who walks every morning with his headphones on, listening to his favorite number especially the favorite numbers from his fellow Madang countryman Wok Kiatik of Shydeez Band.

The local artist’s lyrics usually helps his morning walks to work at the town’s only and first glass house which is the Ramu NiCo’s head office from Mondays to Saturdays and does his job diligently.

Kari developed his passion for driving as a student in the 1990s, learning skills from his uncle, Don Mek, while completing grades 9 and 10 at Tusbab. When his legal career did not materialize, he pursued work in driving, sales, and marketing.

He found an opportunity close to home at the United Pacific Drilling Company (UPD). While working for UPD, Kari developed the passion for mining industry, which led him to apply for a driver position at Ramu NiCo in 2018.

His application was accepted and he joined the company as a driver. His diligence soon earned him a promotion to administration officer at Ramu NiCo’s transit accommodation at Madang Inn. In mid-2022, he was transferred back to the glass house and continue his role as an administration officer in the Transport Department.

Now with over seven years of service, Kari has become an integral part of the team. His job involves meticulous checks of paperwork, vehicle inspections, and ensuring all safety measures are in place. His work is not confined to the office; he regularly visits the mine site to ensure all vehicles and machinery are operating smoothly and in compliance.

For Kari, working for Ramu NiCo is more than just a job—it is a responsibility he takes seriously. As long as he knows his efforts are integral to the company’s success and his colleagues’ safety, he will continue to be the silent but essential force behind the scenes. (Dorothy Mark)

Francis Kari enjoying Madang Provincial 50th Independence Anniversary Celebration