From bare ground to big dreams: Western province to build modern stadium
Wednesday, 24 September 2025, 8:45 am
Ground-breaking ceremony in Kiunga Town for the new multi-purpose stadium (NBC News)
After years of delay, Western Province has broken ground on a transformative new development. Governor Taboi Awi Yoto officially launched a multi-purpose sports complex in Kiunga Town over the weekend, marking a major milestone in the region’s efforts to uplift youth and community infrastructure.
Initially slated for construction between 2018 and 2020, the long-anticipated project aims to deliver a safe, modern playing field for young athletes and pave the way for Western Province’s participation in national sporting competitions like the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup.
“The reason we are building this stadium is to provide a safe and proper venue for our youths,” Governor Yoto said. “As a young man, I played on this very field, and I know how dangerous it can be. We can't allow the next generation to play on unsafe grounds.”
3D version of the soon-to-be stadium (Image: Supplied)
The new complex will feature a fenced perimeter, two stages, spectator seating, and designated vendor stalls, creating not just a sports facility but a hub for community activity. Construction will begin soon, with fencing as the first phase.
Local company Lotic Bige Limited, a landowner firm from the Lower Ok Tedi area, has been awarded the contract to build the facility as part of the Governor’s push to prioritize local contractors and stimulate regional economic growth.
“When you deliver quality work, you earn trust not just from government, but from investors and the wider community,” Yoto stressed. “But failure to deliver will mean lost opportunities for future contracts.”
Western Province Provincial Administrator Robert Alphose Kaiyun commended the Governor’s commitment to local development.
Western Province governor Taboi Awi Yotto and his delegation welcomed at Kiunga Town for the launch (NBC News)
“This project is a major uplift for our people. By involving local contractors and investing in community spaces, we are creating both economic and social value,” Kaiyun said.
The launch event drew a large crowd, including the North Fly District Administrator, Deputy Administrator, senior public servants, Lotic Bige Limited executives and staff, and members of the public.
The complex is expected to serve as a catalyst for youth development, sporting excellence, and small business growth in Kiunga and beyond.
