The Papua New Guinea Unity Games remain in uncertainty despite renewed assurances from organizers that the long-delayed event will proceed in 2026 in Southern Highlands province.

The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has maintained that preparations are continuing for the Games to be staged between June 20 to July 20, 2026.

However, major concerns surrounding venue readiness, accommodation, water supply, sanitation, and public health infrastructure, continue to cast doubt over the event’s feasibility.

Recent updates from organizers confirmed that several critical areas remain unresolved, including hygiene systems and the completion of sporting venues.

The main venue, Oiyarep Stadium, is still undergoing work and has yet to meet operational standards required to host a national sporting event.

Officials from the PNG Sports Foundation and the LOC, recently met in Mendi to review progress and discuss ongoing challenges surrounding preparations.

Provincial leaders have also raised concerns about public health and safety if key infrastructure issues are not addressed before the games begin.

Water supply, sanitation, and sewerage systems remain among the most pressing challenges identified by local authorities.

In addition, the games have faced repeated postponements since Southern Highlands province won hosting rights in 2017 during the bid process held in West New Britain province.

Over the years, the event has reportedly been delayed multiple times due to election-related violence, the COVID-19 pandemic, funding constraints, political instability, and security concerns.

With projected costs now estimated at K270 million, criticism has continued to grow over the viability of the games amid wider national challenges involving healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.

Furthermore, the National Executive Council is expected to make a final determination on whether the Games will proceed as planned, face another postponement, or be suspended indefinitely.