Excitement is building among landowners of Ramu NiCo mine in Enekuai village as the community prepares to celebrate Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

The Enekuai people in the lower Bundi area near the Ramu NiCo’s Kurumbukari mine have a reason to celebrate Independence because they have seen positive changes in their community, which was once very difficult to achieve.

The government of Papua New Guinea back in the days when the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare was the Prime Minister decided to push for the development of the nickel and cobalt project that was first discovered in 1962.

After 40 years, Ramu NiCo stepped forward to take on the challenge to develop the project in Bundi. With that challenge to develop the first Nickel and cobalt project in the country, Ramu NiCo slowly transformed the areas by constructing the world-class Banu Bridge across the Ramu River and following the construction of the bridge, other services like health and education flowed into the area.

Enekuai people can now access Madang town by road unlike before. Because of the developments that have changed their lives, they will be celebrating the country’s 50th Independence celebration with flying colors comes 16 September 2025.

Ramu NiCo is proud to be part of the milestone achievements for the people of Enekuai and Bundi and upholding its famous slogan “One Ramu NiCo, One Community,” the company presented a K5, 000 cash donation to support sports and cultural activities for the big celebration.

The company’s Community Affairs Department at Kurumbukari donated the funding support in a colorful occasion at Enekuai which is located near the mine site on 5 September 2025.

Enekuai Primary School students were dressed in traditional attire to receive the gift from the company.

Their proud display of culture set the tone for the event, while parents and community leaders expressed heartfelt thanks to the company, as well as co-sponsors KBK Ltd (SML Landowner Company) and Raibus Group of Companies, for coming together to support the community.

Adding to the spirit of unity, the newly elected MP for Usino-Bundi District Vincent Kumura also pledged his support, reinforcing the importance of partnerships in making the event a success.

Local leaders shared their appreciation for this collaboration, noting that such teamwork sends a strong message of community spirit and commitment to a peaceful, trouble-free celebration.

The program will run from 10 to 15 September with various sporting events, followed by a mini cultural show on 16 September to mark the country’s golden independence anniversary.

For Ramu NiCo, being part of this celebration is more than sponsorship; it is about sharing pride, culture, and unity with the communities that host the project. （Dorothy Mark)

Ramu NiCo’s Community Affairs Department Officers surrounded by children of Enekuai village during the cash presentation to support their celebration of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary