United Imbonggu Rugby League Incorporated With IPA

The United Imbonggu Rugby League (UIRL) has been incorporated with the PNG Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) after two years of running the competition. 

UIRL Administrator/Treasurer Kelvin Kepo announced the incorporation of the league with IPA, expressing satisfaction with the outcome.

“To our community, players, and supporters, it is with immense pride that I announce the official incorporation of the United Imbonggu Rugby League (UIRL),” Kepo said. 

“After two years of relentless effort, sacrifice, and overcoming everything from adverse weather to logistical hurdles, UIRL is now a fully recognized legal entity with our own IPA and TIN certification.

“This journey began with a vision two years ago to revive our dormant league. Today, that vision is a reality.”

Administrator Kepo acknowledged his executives and everyone for their support, which finally led to the formal registration of the league.

“As the league administrator and initiator, I want to extend my deepest thanks to the community for your unwavering support and the constructive criticism that kept us sharp,” he said. 

“Thank you to the club management and players for your patience and dedication to the game through every challenge.

“And to the UIRL executives and officials, thank you for the tireless hours spent behind the scenes to formalize our body.”

Mr. Kepo explained that they would hold the league’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) before the 2026 season kicks off.

“To ensure we hit the ground running, I am calling an Annual General Meeting. We invite all league executives, club presidents, potential sponsors, community leaders, and stakeholders to attend,” he said.

“The key agendas of the AGM will capture club registration, 2026 calendar, and master draws, including budget planning and engagement with the sponsors, and recruitment of motivated members to join the league’s governing body.”

The United Imbonggu Rugby League executive committee has urged business houses to support them in delivering another successful, competitive, and peaceful 2026 season. 

Kepo concluded: "Success is a team sport. Let’s build a professional future for our youth through the game we love.”

Imbonggu is known for producing some big-name rugby league players over the years. Some have gone on to play in the Digicel Cup, Hunters, and Kumuls, and also furthered their careers abroad. 

The following are the 2026 United Imbonggu Rugby League Executives:

• President - Shelegh Benny Tiye

• Vice President - Nick W Tape

• Treasurer - Kelvin M Kepo

• General Secretary - Thomas A Kara

• Judiciary Chairman - Rodney Tange

• Games Committee Chairman - Matthew Kepu

• Administrator - Kelvin M Kepo

• Patron - Peter Kanekane

• Medic - Onnay Moro

• Doctor - Dr. Stanley Kongil

• Grounds Committee Chairman - Jacob Kumbiye

• Patron - Moses Tope