A leading Bougainvillean governance and mineral specialist has been knighted in Papua New Guinea's Queen's Birthday honours.
Mel Togolo Photo: PNG Chamber of Mines & Petroleum
The Post Courier reported Sir Mel Togolo is known for his contribution to the establishment of the provincial government system in PNG and helped Bougainville set the precedence for autonomy, together with John Momis.
With other leaders they established PNG's inaugural provincial government in the then North Solomons Province where Sir Mel played a key role as chief secretary between 1978 and 1990.
He later worked in the mining sector for over 25 years, serving as PNG country manager with Nautilus Minerals and is now chairman of Bougainville Copper Ltd.
The father of Treasury Minister Charles Abel was also knighted.
Sir Christopher Abel was knighted for service to the community both in agriculture and encouraging participation in business.