Digicel renews K6 million sponsorship for PNG Kumuls and Orchids

*From L:* Kumuls center Robert Mathias, Digicel PNG senior vice president Lorna McPherson, Digicel PNG CEO Tarik Boudiaf, PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina, Orchids chairlady Celestine Ove, and Orchids utility Mala Mark in a show of solidarity during the sponsorship renewal at the NFS club lounge in Port Moresby *(NBC News / Suli Suli)*

In a major boost for rugby league in Papua New Guinea, Digicel PNG has renewed its sponsorship of the PNG Kumuls and Orchids national teams with a K6 million investment over the next three years.
The sponsorship deal is worth K3 million each for the Kumuls and Orchids will support the teams’ preparations for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.

Announced today by Digicel PNG and the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League [PNGRFL], the sponsorship is not only a continuation of an existing partnership but a reaffirmation of Digicel's commitment to gender equity in sport.

Digicel PNG chief executive officer Tarik Boudiaf said it was important to provide equal investment in both the men’s and women’s teams to progress the code.

“This is not just a renewal, it’s a bold step forward,” Boudiaf said.

“We are providing equal sponsorship to both the Kumuls and Orchids because we believe in equal opportunity, exposure, and support for all athletes, regardless of gender.”

Boudiaf said the Orchids’ rising profile and dedication has demonstrated the same fire, skills and commitment as their male counterparts, adding that they deserve the same resources, recognition, and visibility.

“This renewed partnership ensures our women athletes have access to top-tier training, greater visibility, and are empowered to inspire the next generation,” he said.

The new sponsorship deal will run from 2025 to 2027, covering the teams through to the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, marking Digicel’s support for two consecutive World Cup cycles.

PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina praised Digicel’s long-standing contribution to rugby league in PNG, from grassroots to elite level.

“Today is about our marquee teams, the Kumuls and the Orchids, who proudly carry our national identity. This renewed sponsorship ensures their continued preparation and performance at the highest level,” Hondina said.

“Digicel has been a proud platinum sponsor, and this commitment takes our partnership into the next World Cup and beyond.”

Chairlady of the Santos PNG Orchids Celestine Ove welcomed the sponsorship as a transformative step for women’s rugby league in the country.

“When the Orchids were first formed, there was limited support. At times, Santos (formerly Oil Search) stood alone in funding the women’s game,” she said.

“It brings me great joy to see a major company like Digicel investing equally in our women’s team.”
She said that the funding supports not just the elite teams, but also development pathways that will shape future generations of players.

“The level of preparation required for elite competition is demanding, and this support allows our teams to compete and perform on the world stage.”

Digicel PNG has supported rugby league in the country for over 12 years from local leagues to the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone sponsor of the sport.

“This is about more than just sport. It’s about community, national pride, and unity,” Boudiaf.
“We are proud to stand behind both the Kumuls and Orchids.”

The renewed sponsorship is being widely celebrated across the rugby league community as PNG continues to raise its profile on the international stage.