OTML Supports PNGFA With K1 Million

The Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) announced a K1 million sponsorship to the PNG Football Association (PNGFA) yesterday (Wednesday, April 9th, 2025) at its headquarters in Kwalimu Haus, Port Moresby.

OTML has previously sponsored the PNGFA. However, the gold and copper company pulled the plug a few years ago and has come on board again to support PNGFA. 

This one million kina sponsorship package has boosted the PNGFA to drive its development programs in collaboration with its 18 member associations, aiming to foster growth and expansion across the country.

OTML Managing Director & CEO Kedi Ilimbit announced the partnership, stressing the crucial role soccer plays for many young athletes in the country. 

"Like rugby league, soccer is traditionally played by many young children before they engage in other sports,” he said.  

“This is why OTML has come on board to support the development of football.”

Mr. Ilimbit expressed OTML's commitment as a Papua New Guinean-owned company to supporting sports, emphasizing on grassroots level and the company's desire to see the development of football players. 

"The development pathway must start in schools and villages with this financial boost to the code," Mr. Ilimbit stated.

He challenged the President of PNGFA John Kapi Natto to prioritize development and the nationwide spread of soccer, encouraging the young athletes to join the sport and develop their skills.

Mr. Ilimbit further mentioned that he would like to see PNG win the OFC championship and qualify for the forthcoming FIFA World Cup in 2030. 

"We will work on it to win the OFC championship and qualify in the 2030 World Cup," he stated.

He asserted that if PNGFA spends the allocated funds to good use as intended to develop the code throughout the country, OTML would continue its support next year and into the future.

In addition, PNGFA President John Kapi Natto expressed his gratitude and appreciation to OTML for the huge sponsorship, assuring CEO IIimbit that they would endeavor to elevate the standard of football in the country. 

"This sponsorship will go a long way in enhancing football in the country,” Natto said.  

“The funding and resources are crucial for ongoing training programs, grassroots initiatives, youth pathway programs, and the national teams.”

Mr. Kapi Natto reaffirmed his commitment to youth development programs, highlighting the Annual Youth Championships that take place across all four regions of the country and thanking OTML as one of the leading companies that prioritizes corporate responsibility.

"Football is not just a game - it’s a vehicle of change, a source of unity - and a catalyst for personal and professional growth," he added.

"With your generous support, we will be able to nurture the talents of our players, create opportunities for them to excel, and inspire the next generation of football stars.  

"OTML’s investment in sports exemplifies its commitment to the communities it serves by supporting PNGFA. You are helping to build a bright future, especially for our youth.”