A major agreement aimed at improving public safety and removing dangerous remnants of World War II has been signed between the East New Britain Provincial Government and The HALO Trust under a U.S.-supported initiative.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), signed on Friday by Michael Marum and HALO Trust PNG Program Manager William Hunter, will guide the implementation of an $11.5 million (K47.2 million) United States-funded program focused on locating and disposing of unexploded ordnance (UXO) across East New Britain Province.

The funding will also support ongoing UXO clearance activities in Oro Province and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

Under the agreement, The HALO Trust will conduct surveys and mapping of areas contaminated by wartime explosives before carrying out excavation and disposal operations. The project aims to reduce risks to communities, protect livelihoods, and prevent unexploded devices from being misused.

Community awareness and education also form a key part of the initiative. Risk education programs will be delivered in schools and public facilities to improve understanding of UXO dangers and encourage safer behavior in affected communities.

The agreement additionally includes training and employment opportunities for local residents in East New Britain. The HALO Trust will provide explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) training for members of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, while also assisting efforts to strengthen national systems for tracking and reporting unexploded ordnance.

Governor Marum welcomed the partnership, highlighting the longstanding relationship between Papua New Guinea and the United States, particularly through efforts to recover American soldiers missing since World War II.

He said the expanded support reflects a shared commitment to honoring historical ties while improving safety for local communities still affected by wartime remnants.

William Hunter described the project as an important step toward protecting lives in areas heavily impacted during World War II, noting that unexploded ordnance remains a serious hazard in many communities.

Meanwhile, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Alex Berenberg said the initiative demonstrates the United States’ commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea in addressing UXO threats, building local capacity, and creating safer environments for affected populations.

The HALO Trust is an international humanitarian organization supported by both the United States and the United Kingdom, with a mission focused on protecting communities impacted by conflict and explosive remnants of war.