THE long-awaited K600 million hydro power project in Imbonggu District, Southern Highlands Province, is now set to proceed following the signing of agreements by landowners and project developers at Ilumbe village recently.

Councillors and community leaders representing six Incorporated Land Groups (ILGs) signed the agreement in the presence of Imbonggu MP and Minister for Justice and Attorney-General Pila Niningi, AG Investment managing director Allan Go, and other dignitaries.

The proposed Kagul Hydro Project, which is expected to generate more than 100 megawatts of electricity, will be developed by AG Investment and is anticipated to become one of the country’s largest hydro power projects.

Mr Niningi said he had pursued the project since 1982 and was pleased to see it finally progressing.

“I thank Allan Go for accepting my invitation to come and assess the project.

“AG Investment has successfully built hydro projects around the country, and I believe they are capable of delivering this one as well,” he said.

Mr Niningi also acknowledged Korowa Pokeya for facilitating the visit by company officials, and urged landowners to support the engineers who will be conducting feasibility studies over the next two weeks.

Imbonggu District chief executive officer Paul Kereme called on landowners and residents to unite and embrace the development opportunities the project would bring.

“We must stand together and push this project forward because this opportunity can improve people’s lives,” Mr Kereme said.

“There is no better time than now, today is the moment.”