04 Jan 2022

The PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum President Anthony Smaré, the Chamber Council, Management and Staff convey our deepest condolences to the family, relatives, and friends of the Late Sam Akoitai, MP.

The Chamber and its members remember him as always being a committed supporter of the proactive development of the country’s Mining sector. This commitment and support of the Mining industry stems from his time as an employee of Bougainville Copper Limited, when he first joined in 1978 and worked there for eight years.

After successfully contesting the national elections in 1997 and being re-elected as Member of Parliament for Central Bougainville, in 2002 he was appointed Minister for Mining. He also held several other Ministerial portfolios including Environment, Conservation and Correctional Institution Services under the late Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare.

During his tenure as Mining Minister, the Late Sam Akoitai left an indelible mark on the sector, as being one of the most proactive and committed Ministers in the country’s history, to ever have taken on this portfolio. His unwavering support of the industry continued until his untimely death.

It is with great sadness and deep appreciation for his efforts for the industry, the country and his people, that we bid him farewell.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.