Regional Youth Games

The closing ceremony also coincided with the lowering of the game's flag and handing over to the next host, the Highlands region.

Finally, a wrap into the Regional Youth Games, with Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa closing the ceremony.

The games were considered a success as Madang, although known for high petty crimes and the ever-increasing crime rates, took care of over 400 athletes and officials who came in from the other three regions and Port Moresby.

This is in line with their new policy and motto of “Going Rural to Go Global”. The aim is to identify and develop raw talents that are hidden in the rural areas of the country.

The regional youth games for Momase kicked off yesterday in Madang. This is the second regional game after Milne Bay for Southern Region which was held last year.

Athletes were told that this new pathway will create a platform for hidden talents within the rural areas to be identified.

District teams from each region marched proudly into the Laiwaden Oval in Madang by processions of cultural groups. The participants will take part in soccer, rugby touch, basketball and volleyball. Also included in the games are the para-athletes.

Jason Peter the Miniter for Community Development & Religion, officially gave his keynote address and opened the Games. He said this platform would give an opportunity for participants to be selected and progress further by representing their provinces and the country.

The Regional Youth Games allows for a way forward for the engagement of youth in the rural areas, to participate in sporting tournaments to be hosted in districts.

The three agencies believe that sports is a catalyst for change and character development that enforces growth, mindset change, instils discipline and positive behaviour.

Each party to the MoU is now given the mandate to facilitate more sporting activities for youth in the rural areas, in consultation with District Development Authorities, where there is a rural focus approach.