BY NED GAGAHE
Land ownership issues and compensation claims are continuing to slow down aviation infrastructure projects across the country, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, Alwyn Danitofea, said.
Speaking to local media during a press conference yesterday, Mr Danitofea acknowledged that while significant progress is being made on airport upgrades, challenges relating to customary land remain a major hurdle.
“One of the biggest challenges we are facing is compensation for land and trees,” he said.
Mr Danitofea explained that the Government is required to follow strict policies, including those of development partners such as the World Bank, which mandate compensation for any assets affected by infrastructure projects.
“These include trees and other resources owned by landowners. In some cases, we are also dealing with land ownership disputes, which can delay the implementation of projects,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary said such issues are common across provincial airport developments, where customary land ownership is often complex and not formally documented.
He said that while the Government is committed to meeting its obligations to landowners, the process can be time-consuming and challenging, particularly in areas where ownership is unclear or contested.
Despite the setbacks, Mr Danitofea said the Ministry continues to work closely with stakeholders to resolve disputes and ensure projects move forward.
He said that upgrading aviation infrastructure remains a priority for the government, with projects underway at both Henderson International Airport and Munda Airport, as well as several provincial airports.
“These developments are important for improving connectivity and supporting economic growth, but we must also ensure that landowners are treated fairly in the process,” he said.
Mr Danitofea added that the Ministry remains confident that, despite the challenges, progress will continue as efforts are made to address land and compensation issues nationwide.
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