Benedict Ienu
As Ples: Moroni, Pakia, Panguna
Occupation: Village Liaison Officer
Meet Benedict Ienu. Benedict was an ex-combatant who was a founding member of the Me’ekamui government until 1997. He also worked with a number of other groups and companies trying to take over the Panguna mine, but became disillusioned.
His concern for the future of younger generations brought him to Bougainville Copper, as he saw the company as the best opportunity to assist in finding a ‘road’ for his group.
Benedict is also a trained welder and fabricator, working for Kieta Engineering and Island Steel in the 1970’s. In 1980, he joined his family business to run 2 trade stores and a restaurant.