The memorandum of understanding aims to mitigate potential risks associated with deteriorating infrastructure and so promote safety in the area.

Works will be carried out on old BCL assets including the Jaba Pump Station, the Momau River Bridge, the former mine workshop, storage facilities and a concrete wall in the Panguna town area.

The works are expected to begin in November and take several months to complete.

ABG chief secretary Kearnneth Nanei said concerns about dilapidated infrastructure had been notified to the government following field work conducted as part of the Panguna mine legacy impact assessment.

“We are very pleased to be working with BCL with support from Rio Tinto in responding to the issues raised, in the best interests of our people,” Mr Nanei said.

“As we await the final results of the legacy impact assessment, these works represent a positive sign of cooperation by BCL and Rio Tinto,” he said.

BCL chairman Sir Mel Togolo said, as the mine’s former operator and holder of the EL01 exploration licence for the area, BCL maintains a presence and is recognised as a development partner on the ground in Bougainville.

“Our local team will be working closely with the ABG in overseeing the project works to ensure these ageing buildings and structures don’t cause issues for the community,” Sir Mel said.

Rio Tinto country director for Papua New Guinea Andrew Cooper said: "We are pleased to support the ABG and BCL in addressing these issues identified as a priority during the legacy impact assessment.

“We commend the ABG and chief secretary Nanei for their proactive leadership in driving tangible action.”

The results of Phase 1 of the works are due for public release in the fourth quarter of 2024. 

This will provide all parties with a clearer understanding of the potential environmental impacts and directly connected social and human rights impacts associated with the Panguna mine since the cessation of mining in 1989.