Kundiawa peace cup returns

Last season champion Royals (in blue jumper) and runner up, Works Panthers with MP Mugua Dilu and the game organizers at Kundiawa Dickson’s Oval before kickoff *(Image: NBC News)*

A renewed focus on youth empowerment and district development featured prominently as Kundiawa‑Gembogl MP Mugua Dilu launched the second edition of '2026 MD Peace Cup' at Kundiawa Dickson’s Oval yesterday.

Dilu told players, officials and supporters that the past three years had been difficult while he dealt with court matters, but with his returned, he is determined to finish stalled projects and drive new initiatives across the electorate.

“Invest in your health, stay away from drugs, alcohol and homebrew, attend church, and take sport seriously,” he said.

The MP said the revival of the Peace Cup reflected his commitment to strengthening community unity through sport.

Dilu announced that standout players from this year’s tournament will be considered for selection into a team to compete in the Rigo Rice Cup in Port Moresby.

He also reiterated his ambition to upgrade Dickson’s Oval to PNG RFL standards so it can host national matches and attract larger events to Kundiawa.

Local leaders welcomed the relaunch. Waipa Kulgame, Mayor of Kundiawa Urban, praised Kundiawa Gembogl MP and the district administration for bringing sport back to the town.

MP Mugia Dilu welcomed by players and supporters at Kundiawa Dickson’s Oval *(Image: NBC News)*

"Kundiawa Urban had missed such events,” Kulgame said, calling on players and supporters to compete in the spirit of peace, unity and sportsmanship.

Kulgame Waine, president of Waiye LLG, reminded competitors to remain professional and to act like true sportsmen and sportswomen on and off the field.

He joined fellow LLG presidents Joe Mako of Mitnande and Max Gau of Nilkande LLG in pledging support for the tournament and district development programmes.

MD Peace Cup coordinator Lomex Numapo confirmed that 30 teams will take part this year: 24 men’s sides and six women’s teams.

The tournament opened with a curtain-raiser between last year’s champions; Royals and runners-up, Woks Panthers, as Dickson’s Oval came alive with rugby 9s action.

Organisers said the Peace Cup aims not only to rekindle the sporting spirit across Kundiawa‑Gembogl, but also to provide a platform for youth engagement, talent identification and healthy lifestyles.

Community leaders and residents in attendance pledged their support to ensure a safe and successful competition.