Frieda River Limited delivers clean water to Lumi communities after landslide

Photographs from Lumi show the extent of the damage, with wooden houses destroyed and soil displacement across slopes. (Image: Supplied)

Frieda River Limited [FRL] has stepped in to support communities in Lumi, West Sepik Province, following a devastating landslide in March that damaged homes and blocked vital road access.

As part of its relief efforts, FRL supplied four 5,000-litre tuffa water tanks to provide clean drinking water to affected families. The tanks were delivered to the Sandaun Governor’s office for distribution across impacted villages.

FRL Country Manager, Dr. Joel Hamago, emphasized the importance of clean water in disaster recovery.

“Access to safe drinking water is critical for families rebuilding their lives. Our support reflects FRL’s ongoing commitment to community resilience and wellbeing.” Dr. Hamago said.

This latest intervention builds on FRL’s track record of disaster response, including assistance provided after the Mid-Sepik earthquakes in 2023 and 2024.

FRL is the proponent of the Sepik Development Project (SDP), which integrates infrastructure, mining, hydroelectric power and energy transmission. The project is expected to generate thousands of jobs and deliver enabling infrastructure across the region.

FRL pledged to continue working alongside provincial and national authorities to strengthen community resilience. The company has previously been recognized with awards such as the Best Mining Performance Award and the ASEAN Red Ribbon for Outstanding Workplace Award.

As Lumi families begin the long process of recovery, FRL’s intervention underscores the role of private sector partners in supporting communities through crises and building a foundation for long-term development in Papua New Guinea.