The giant Porgera Gold Mine can't ship it's gold.

The Indigenous landowners  blocking the gates say they were not included in the current landowner relocation agreement at the mine.   While key personnel can come and go, the mine is otherwise blocked off.

Barrick Gold Corp, which owns the mine, says it is talking with the landowners.

Shiela Lasibori of the National reported the Chairman of the Porgera Landowners Association, Mark Ekepa, said the protest was the result of outstanding grievances which they want the mine management to address. They are claiming that the mine had not included them in the current landowner relocation agreement.

“Our food gardens had been destroyed and we fear that our children will not have any land left. Our gardens were covered by dust,” Ekepa said.

He also alleged that the current manager of the mine made deals with some landowners to sign the agreement and thereby left his people out.   He said their requests have not been consider and the agreement does not represent all the landowners.   They have asked to meet with representatives from the P.M.’s office, the Department of Mining and Barrick (Hiugini) Ltd and reneogtiate the mining agreement signed with the company in 1989.

Barrick has confirmed the protest is peaceful and they have currently suspended operations.

Engan Women Dancing at a Singsing