Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has reaffirmed the National Government’s commitment to resettling families displaced by the Manam Volcano in Madang and the Kadovar Volcano in East Sepik. These communities will be provided with permanent land titles, a significant step in securing their futures after years of uncertainty.
Speaking at a ceremony in Kokopo, East New Britain, on Thursday, September 19, 2024, Prime Minister Marape handed out 199 land titles to families displaced by the 1994 Rabaul volcano eruptions. This event marked the 30th anniversary of the catastrophic eruption, which reshaped the lives of the Sikut Talvat people from Rabaul, who have since rebuilt their lives in Gelegele, Kokopo District.
“Other resettlement areas in Madang for victims of the Manam Volcano and Kadovar Volcano in East Sepik are also set to receive similar support in the near future,” Prime Minister Marape assured. He further emphasised the government’s broader efforts, stating, “The 199 land titles we are issuing today are just the beginning. We will extend this process to ensure that all families affected by the 1994 Rabaul eruptions, the Manam Volcano, and the Kadovar Volcano will receive secure land titles through a proper government process, providing them the security and stability they deserve.”
Prime Minister Marape praised the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister and Lands Minister, Hon. John Rosso, and the National Lands Board, led by George Gware, for their dedication to addressing the land needs of those displaced by these natural disasters.
He acknowledged the long-standing challenges faced by the Manam islanders, displaced by eruptions since 2004, and the Kadovar islanders, who have been living in care centers since 2018. He noted that efforts are underway to find permanent solutions for both groups.
“The Manam issue is a significant one. The displacement caused by the 2004 eruption, and subsequent conflicts with Bogia landowners, have delayed the resettlement process. A new site near the Ramu River has been identified, but relocation challenges remain. I assure the people of Manam that their situation has not been forgotten. Minister Rosso and the National Lands Board are working to address this as a matter of urgency.”
Regarding the Kadovar islanders, he added, “Since their displacement in January 2018, the Kadovar islanders have been living at a care center in Dandan, Wewak, with plans to relocate them to Angoram. However, as sea people, they have struggled to adapt to an inland environment. Like Manam, their resettlement is a priority, and we are addressing it with the urgency it requires.”
Prime Minister Marape concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring that all displaced communities receive the support they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and security.