As a step toward fostering collaboration and sustainable development, Republic of Nauru Phosphate Corporation(RONPHOS) and the Rabi Council of leaders, representing the Banaban community, have formalised their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
RONPHOS Minister Shadlog Bernicke and Rabi Administrator Jacob Karutake, signed the MOU that will lay the foundation for a strategic partnership to explore and implement phosphate-related projects on Ocean Island, aiming to address long-standing challenges caused by primary phosphate mining and promote sustainable development.
This collaboration emphasises capacity building, infrastructure improvement, environmental rehabilitation and sustainable employment for Banabans on Ocean Island. It also includes RONPHOS assisting in developing a potential crushing plant on Ocean Island.
The MOU acknowledges the Kiribati government’s sovereign jurisdiction over Ocean Island. With a shared vision of fostering economic growth and community empowerment, both parties will focus on key areas such as technical and engineering support, capacity building, project development, waste management, and funding opportunities.
The MOU reflects a commitment to use a sustainable resource, and this partnership represents a significant milestone in addressing historical challenges and projecting a future of collaboration, innovation, and environmental stewardship for Ocean Island.
