Alluvial Mining Sector Reform

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Sustainable Alluvial Mining Services (SAMS)

On the Killings in Sambio and the Urgent Need for Alluvial Mining Reform

Sustainable Alluvial Mining Services (SAMS) expresses its deepest concern and condemnation over the tragic loss of lives in Sambio. This incident must not be viewed in isolation, but as a reflection of deeper systemic weaknesses within Papua New Guinea’s mining governance framework.

The current legal regime, governed by the Mining Act 1992, remains inadequate in addressing the realities of small-scale and alluvial mining, particularly in areas where customary landowners live alongside established social infrastructure such as villages and schools. These gaps create fertile ground for disputes, tensions, and, ultimately, conflict.

SAMS notes that the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA), as the implementing agency of the Act, plays a central role in the administration of mining applications. If a Warden’s Hearing was conducted in relation to the Sambio mining application, then such a process may have contributed to escalating disagreements among affected communities and landowners. In such circumstances, the process itself could have acted as a trigger for conflict.

Furthermore, serious questions arise as to whether the mining licence application should have been rejected at the outset. Where land is clearly occupied by existing villages, schools, and essential public infrastructure, there is a strong case that such applications should not proceed at all. Failure to do so risks placing communities in direct conflict over land and resource ownership.

The Sambio tragedy underscores the urgent need for structural reform in the mining sector. SAMS therefore calls for:

1. The establishment of a Separate Alluvial Mining Act

A dedicated legal framework is necessary to regulate alluvial and small-scale mining in Papua New Guinea. This Act must reflect the unique social, environmental, and economic realities of the sector, with strong emphasis on community protection, customary land rights, and sustainable practices.

2. Immediate amendments to the Mining Act 1992

Prohibit the granting of mining licenses in areas with existing settlements and public institutions

Strengthen requirements for genuine and informed community consent

Introduce stricter social and environmental safeguards.

3. Stronger regulatory diligence and accountability

Institutions responsible for implementing mining laws must exercise heightened scrutiny and avoid administrative processes that may unintentionally inflame tensions within communities.

The people of Sambio deserved protection, not exposure to conflict. Their loss must serve as a turning point for meaningful reform to ensure that no other community in Papua New Guinea faces similar tragedy.

Sustainable Alluvial Mining Services stands ready to work with government, regulators, and communities to develop a safer, more equitable, and sustainable alluvial mining sector.

Issued by:

Sustainable Alluvial Mining Services (SAMS)

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea