Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority and Prime Minister Mark Brown Lead Community Consultation in Mangaia
The Prime Minister and Minister for Seabed Minerals, Hon. Mark Brown led our delegation to a successful consultation in Mangaia from 4-5 September 2024. This visit aimed to inform and engage the Mangaia community on the latest developments within the Seabed Minerals sector. The two-day programme provided updates on seabed exploration progress, introduced activities conducted and planned by the three seabed minerals licence holders—Cook Islands Cobalt Ltd (CIC), Cook Islands Seabed Resources Limited (CSR), and Moana Minerals Limited (MML)—and encouraged local involvement in the national seabed minerals agenda. The visit reflects the ongoing commitment to transparent dialogue and community involvement in the Cook Islands’ seabed minerals initiatives.
Day 1 Highlights
Upon arrival in Mangaia, the delegation received a warm welcome from local leaders, with traditional greetings at the Mangaia Airport. Following this, a gathering with the Island Council and Aronga Mana set the stage for meaningful discussions about seabed minerals development. Prime Minister Brown and delegation members shared insights into recent research, sustainable development practices, and the significance of responsible seabed exploration. They also underscored the Cook Islands Government's commitment to preserving the environment while exploring potential benefits for all Cook Islanders.
The main event on Day 1 was a public consultation at the Oneroa Youth Hall. This session provided a platform for open discussion, allowing the Mangaia community to voice their thoughts and ask questions. PM Brown and the SBMA team presented sector updates, with key messages on the progress of exploration activities and environmental safeguards in place. Representatives from CIC, CSR, and MML also shared updates on their exploration progress and future plans, offering Mangaia residents a closer look at how seabed minerals development is advancing responsibly and sustainably.
Day 2 Highlights
The delegation visited Mangaia School on Thursday morning, where students and staff were given a tailored presentation on seabed minerals, highlighting potential career pathways and the importance of conservation in resource management. The visit aimed to foster interest in the seabed minerals field among younger generations and encourage their role in shaping the future of the Cook Islands' resources. Following the school visit, the delegation gathered for lunch and further discussions before departing Mangaia, concluding the consultation visit.
Key Themes of the Consultation
The Mangaia consultation highlighted three primary themes: the sector’s current progress, recent updates from licence holders, and the importance of continued community engagement. The delegation’s outreach emphasised that the seabed minerals sector requires active collaboration and transparency with all Cook Islanders.
Prime Minister Brown expressed gratitude to the people of Mangaia, noting, “Our seabed minerals are a unique asset, and it is our duty to manage them responsibly, with our communities as active participants in every step. Through these consultations, we are building a future that balances opportunity with sustainability, ensuring benefits for generations to come.”
For more information on the Seabed Minerals Authority and upcoming consultations, please visit our website www.sbma.gov.ck or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CookIslandsSBMA
Queries regarding this release can be directed to [email protected].