Ishmael Toroama

Consensus reached to reopen Panguna

The focal point of the meeting was President Toroama's disclosure regarding the government's recent verdict concerning the granting of the Exploration Licence (ELO1) over the Panguna former Special Mine lease area to Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL).

Addressing the assembly, President Toroama underscored the historical significance of the gathering, marking the culmination of a series of dialogues facilitated over the past two years through the Panguna Mine Dialogue process.

Toroama declares self-funded independence

Emphasizing the importance of recognizing the ability to save for the future, Toroama asserted that Bougainvilleans hold the key to shaping their sovereign destiny.

During the announcement, Toroama urged citizens, including cabinet ministers, public servants, and members of the private sector, to prioritize saving. He highlighted the government's commitment to advancing the aspirations of Bougainvilleans, citing various projects, including a savings and loans society, as crucial steps toward financial self-sufficiency.

Bougainville Tech College receives new facilities

The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries including the President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Ishmael Toroama, Australian High Commissioner, Jon Philp, Bougainville Minister for Education Thomas Petaaku, Bougainville Minister for Community Development Morris Opeti, and representatives from the ABG Department of Education.

Bougainvilleans challenged

“This is the question that I had in mind when I stated, under the six-point strategy, a desire for the ABG to get into the practice of long-term visioning and planning so that we can start laying the foundations of a future Bougainville society,” he said. 

Governor Chan welcomes AROB president

President Toroama was accompanied by his wife Lady Betty Toroama and the AROB delegation.

The visiting delegation was met with a gracious reception not only from Governor Chan but also from the traditional Maimais of New Ireland, who bestowed upon them a customary chiefly welcome, signifying the importance of the occasion.

The purpose of President Toroama and his delegation's visit to New Ireland is to participate in celebrating New Ireland Day, an annual event scheduled for Wednesday, July 26th to Thursday, July 27th, 2023.

President visits Late Somare’s tomb

“Mi kam long peim rispek na givim bikpela luksave long papa bilong kantri, Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare,” said Toroama at Kreer Heights.

“Kam bilong mi tu em long toksave long em olsem Bougainville em i wok long redi nau long wokabaut em yet.”

President Toroama further described Sir Michael as an inspiration for selfless leadership.

“Bougainville has always shared a very close relationship with the leadership and people of East Sepik Province. I am here to strengthen these bonds while looking into the future of Bougainville,” President Toroama stated.

President calls for undisrupted assessment

President Toroama issued the statement following the move by several parties who are trying to raise a class action suit against Rio Tinto for their role in developing the Panguna Mine and the effects it had on the environment and the communities around the mine.

The Panguna Legacy Impact Assessment is being funded by Rio Tinto through Tetra Tech Coffey who are conducting the assessment.

It is also the first time Rio Tinto has made any commitment to Bougainville since the cessation of mining operations in Panguna, Central Bougainville.

Arore apologises

The incident was recorded and shared on social media.

Arore said his sentiments uttered during the episode were not meant to destroy or tarnish the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG); rather a general observation of the Buka airport facility.

Mr Arore, in a media conference in Port Moresby, clarified that what transpired at Buka airport, was misconstrued.

“I was intimidated by the security personnel at the airport for checking my luggage after already being checked and uttered those sentiments.

ABG outlines 2023 focus areas

Bougainville President, Ishmael Toroama, made the statement during his New Year’s message for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

President Toroama said in the last three years, his government had focused on the post referendum joint consultations with the National Government.

With the 2019 Bougainville Referendum results about to be tabled in the National Parliament for ratification this year, the ABG is focused on capacity building in each of its social and development sectors.

Land is key: President

Autonomous Bougainville Government President, Ishmael Toroama, made this statement during the swearing in of the new Minister for Lands, Physical Planning, Environment and Conservation, Amanda Masono.

He also took the time to acknowledge the outgoing Minister and Member for Hagogohe Constituency, Robert Hamas Sawa, for his services during his term as Minister for Lands.