The Frieda River copper and gold mine in Papua New Guinea is scheduled to begin production in 2035, with an estimated cost of $2.8 billion. However, there is growing concern about the potential impacts of the mine on the Sepik River and the people who live along it.
Sepik River: biodiverse river in the world
The Sepik River is one of the most biodiverse rivers in the world, and it is essential to the way of life of the Sepik people. The river provides food, water, transportation, and a source of cultural and spiritual identity.
Local landowners and NGOs criticize the Frieda River mine's impacts on the mighty Sepik River, arguing that the potential destruction of the river systems, wildlife, and people's way of life will be irreparable.
One cannot ignore the fact that the Sepik River and its natural environment has provided for the people for thousands of years. It is too valuable to justify the mine's economic benefits.
The risks of water pollution, acid mine drainage, and deforestation, as well as the disruption of the Sepik people's traditional way of life is far greater than the mining's revenue.
The Sepik River and its people are More Valuable Than PanAust's $2.8 Billion
Protecting Sepik River and people's way of life is more valuable than $2.8 billion mine.
— P.N.G. Insight (@PNG_Insight) November 2, 2023
Mine Developer PanAust
The developer of the mine, PanAust, has committed to regular government and community engagement throughout the project. However, critics argue that PanAust has not adequately addressed their concerns.
In a recent statement, the Save the Sepik campaign said: "The Frieda River mine is a threat to the Sepik River and the people of the Sepik. We call on the Papua New Guinea government to stop the mine and protect our river and our way of life."
The decision of whether or not to proceed with the Frieda River mine is a complex one. There are potential economic benefits to the mine, but there are also significant risks to the environment and the people of the Sepik. The Papua New Guinea government must carefully weigh all of the factors involved before making a decision.
