BY NED GAGAHE

Chairman of the Gold Ridge Community and Landowners Council (GRCLC), Dick Douglas, has officially welcomed the newly appointed Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, Derrick Manuari.

In a statement on behalf of the 16 principal landowning tribes of Gold Ridge, Douglas said GRCLC looks forward to working closely with the Minister and his Ministry to advance key landowner priorities.

“We welcome you, Minister Manuari, and look forward to building a strong relationship with you, your Permanent Secretary, Directors, and technical staff. We trust you will continue the work of your predecessor, particularly on matters affecting landowners and the Gold Ridge project,” Douglas said.

He highlighted two urgent issues for the Minister’s attention: the ongoing review of the GRCLC Agreement between the Government, GRCLC, and Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML); and continued support for the Joint Taskforce, co-chaired by former Minister Bradley Tovosia and the Minister of Police, which focused on curbing illegal mining and strengthening site security.

Douglas also thanked former Minister Tovosia for his cooperation during his term.

“Tovosia worked closely with our Council. His support helped progress important discussions on land ownership, site security, and benefit-sharing,” he said.

Douglas went on to congratulate Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and the Government for National Unity and Transformation for defeating the recent Motion of No Confidence in Parliament.

“We commend the Prime Minister for maintaining political stability. His visit to Gold Ridge earlier this year demonstrated his commitment to the project and its role in the national economy,” he added.

Douglas said Gold Ridge Mine is not just a private enterprise, but a national and community asset delivering tangible benefits to landowners and surrounding communities. These include:

• Royalties paid directly to landowning tribes
• Land rentals to Prospecting License holders
• First dividend payment to landowners via the GRCLC
• Community development projects—such as the Tinahulu Bridge, road upgrades, housing improvements, and school and church support

“These outcomes show that when landowners are part-owners in a resource project, communities can experience real and lasting development,” he said.

Douglas emphasized the importance of continued collaboration, mutual respect, and transparency among all stakeholders.

“Our people are proud part-owners under the new company structure and remain committed to working with the mining company, Guadalcanal Provincial Government, and National Government to ensure Gold Ridge continues contributing to national development.”

“We must build on this foundation through strong leadership, genuine partnerships, and fair policies. Together, we can make Gold Ridge a model for responsible mining and landowner empowerment,” Douglas said.

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