Biwa's Impact in Land Access Leadership

In Papua New Guinea, where land is paramount, Veronica Biwa stands out as a leader in land access management. As the Lands Supervisor at Frieda River Limited (FRL), she brings over two decades of experience to a role critical to mining operations.

“

Land is deeply connected to identity, belonging, and purpose, especially here in PNG. Everything we do must respect that.

Hailing from Finschhafen in Morobe Province, Biwa's expertise spans identifying customary land boundaries, managing investigations, and fostering stakeholder engagement. Since joining FRL in 2024, she has been instrumental in establishing the company's Lands function, guiding her team through complex negotiations and community relations.

Biwa emphasizes the deep connection between land, identity, and purpose in PNG. "Everything we do must respect that," she stated. Her transition into the mining sector, after years with the Department of Lands and Physical Planning, was driven by a desire to contribute to development where it directly meets community needs. "I wanted to be part of a space where responsible land management can create long term benefits for people," she explained.

“

I wanted to be part of a space where responsible land management can create long term benefits for people.

Central to Biwa's approach is building trust through clear, respectful, and transparent engagement with landowners and stakeholders. She instills in her team the importance of cultural sensitivity and empathy, recognizing the profound impact their work has on people's lives and cultural identity. "At the core of my work is a simple purpose, for the land, for the people, and for the purpose that I serve," Biwa said.

“

At the core of my work is a simple purpose, for the land, for the people, and for the purpose that I serve.