Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today handed out 199 land titles to families displaced by the 1994 Rabaul volcano eruptions, marking the 30th anniversary of this significant and somber event in Papua New Guinea’s history.
The 199 families, originally from the Sikut Talvat area of Rabaul, were relocated to Gelagela in the Kokopo District after the volcanic eruptions. Gelagela has since become their second home, a place of refuge and renewal after the devastation of the 1994 eruptions.
Other resettlement areas are also set to receive similar support in the near future.
“The 199 land titles we are now issuing is the start of more to follow. We will ensure all families have a land title through a proper government process so the land can be security for our people,” said Prime Minister Marape.
In recognition of the 30th anniversary, the National Executive Council (NEC) has lifted the long- standing moratorium on Rabaul Town and its surrounding areas. The moratorium, which had been in place since the twin volcanic eruptions of Tavurvur and Vulcan, had left Rabaul and its environs in a state of limbo. With its removal, the government aims to revive business growth and encourage development in the region.
The volcanic eruptions, which displaced over 100,000 people, left Rabaul devastated. Now, with renewed government support, the town is slowly beginning to rise from its ashes.
To further this revival, Prime Minister Marape announced several key government initiatives, including:
– K10 million to assist the East New Britain Provincial Government in efforts to clear volcanic ash and reopen Rabaul.
– K10 million to support the Rabaul District’s collaboration with the Lands Department to issue land titles to all displaced families.
– K5 million to conduct a comprehensive study on the full cost of Rabaul’s restoration.
– K50 million as initial funding to reopen the port and restore essential services, which were once the lifeblood of Rabaul.
Additionally, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of the ongoing K221 million, 17- kilometre Namaliu Highway project, which will connect Tokua to Kokopo, fostering tourism and business opportunities. The highway will eventually extend to Rabaul, further enhancing the region’s economic prospects.
In his address, Prime Minister Marape also outlined plans for further autonomy for East New Britain, as well as infrastructure projects such as the building of highways, the development of a provincial hospital, independent power providers, Kokopo City development, and improvements to Tokua Airport.
“I am happy to be back in East New Britain for the 30th anniversary of the Rabaul volcano eruptions,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“As prime minister, I am the No. 1 servant of the country. My job is to coordinate what my colleague leaders want for you, our people.
“East New Britain is close to my heart because you are a resilient, hardworking, independent, and friendly people. You are anchored in your culture and Christianity. Your provincial government today, as it was in the past, has the highest standard of service delivery. I am here to complement the work of the province through the Governor, MPs, LLGs, Wards, people, and our public servants.”