Port Moresby targets city clean-up ahead of 2028 PNG Chiefs NRL entry

The National Capital District [NCD] is accelerating urban transformation efforts as Papua New Guinea prepares for its historic entry into the National Rugby League [NRL] in 2028.

Political leaders confirmed this week that recent city-wide eviction exercises are part of a broader strategy to get the city in order before the PNG Chiefs begin hosting home games.

Moresby South MP Justin Tkatchenko said current law enforcement and eviction measures are essential to ensuring the capital is welcoming to international visitors.

"With the assistance of our Governor, we're removing the undesirables; those who cause law and order issues in our country will be no more," Tkatchenko said. "We are taking a hard step because we want our city to embrace the Chiefs, embrace what we are being offered, and show Port Moresby in a completely different light."

As the 2028 deadline approaches, NCD Governor Powes Parkop said the city’s role as the franchise’s home base requires significant social and economic preparation.

"On our part, we are going to make sure that we are great hosts," Parkop said. "We are preparing the city in all ways: socially, economically, infrastructure-wise, and lifestyle-wise."

Prime Minister James Marape spoke highly of the massive economic potential of Chiefs franchise, predicting a surge in tourism and local spending.
"Port Moresby will see an influx of 3,000 to 5,000 visitors every second week coming to watch the team play," Marape said. "That means the economy will have the ability to handle thousands of additional visitors going forward into the future."

The excitement continues to build as the city gears up to meet the demands of becoming a professional sporting hub in the Pacific.