The Kerowagi District in Papua New Guinea's Simbu Province recently launched the Kerowagi Rugby Football League (KRL) Commissioning as part of the government's efforts to empower youth and develop communities through sports.
Member of Parliament Hon. Francis Kikin Siune, in an exclusive interview with PNG Business News, emphasized the district's motto, "Leave No Kerowagi Behind."
MP Siune highlighted plans for disciplined youth development, human resource initiatives, and local economic growth in areas like agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure.
The launch event on April 13 was attended by numerous dignitaries and leaders, with Vice Minister for Sports Hon. Sam Basil Jnr pledging K30,000 toward the initiative and stressing the importance of sports for youth development.
Also attending were MP Minister for Police, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, and District Administrator, members of the District Development Authority (DDA), Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Mazup, PNGRFL Chairman, the Provincial Administrator for Enga.
Apologies were conveyed on behalf of the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, and Sports, Hon. Kinoka Feo, who was unable to attend due to prior commitments.
Basil underscored rugby league's role in instilling discipline, teamwork, and pride among young people while fostering national identity and representing Papua New Guinea globally.
“We are not just looking to field a team; we are building a foundation rooted in homegrown players like Justin Olam, who has set the benchmark in the NRL. We must connect grassroots leagues like KRL with national goals to ensure quality representation,” Basil stated.
He emphasized the government's commitment to preparing for the country's debut in the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028, aiming to produce homegrown players for world-class representation.
He paid tribute to rugby pioneers such as the late Ball Numapo and celebrated the presence of rugby legend and PNG NRL Bid coach, Mr. Stanley Gene, at the event.
The initiative reflects a broader strategy to use sports as a unifying and transformative force for communities, with KRL serving as a platform for talent development and youth engagement.
Leaders envision the league not only as a steppingstone for local athletes but also as a catalyst for strengthening the community and positioning PNG as a formidable presence in international rugby league.
“As we launch the Kerowagi Rugby Football League, let us commit to building platforms that empower our youth and unite our communities,” Basil said.
“Together, we will transform dreams into reality and position PNG as a formidable force in the rugby league world.”
