News
Port Moresby, Thursday, May 28, 2026 – TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited (TotalEnergies) has officially become a proud sponsor of the Gulf Isou rugby club, contributing K150,000 in 2026.
TotalEnergies, as an international partner of the Papua LNG Project, continues to strengthen its engagement in Papua New Guinea through initiatives that support local communities.
This partnership directly supports the club’s programs, including the Gulf Academy and a range of initiatives across different age groups. It helps young people in Gulf Province grow by strengthening their discipline, teamwork, and self confidence, while creating pathways to higher levels of competition.
The sponsorship supports all four main teams: the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup team, the Under-19 and Under-17 men’s team and the women’s team. It also addresses practical needs such as equipment, training gear, and general team support, making it easier for players to train and compete.
Mr Arnaud Berthet, Managing Director of TotalEnergies EP PNG, expressed his support for the club during a meeting with senior team representatives, including Ms Carolyn Mom, Chief Executive Officer of PRK Gulf Isou, team Captain Mr Smith Pamundi, and vice-captain Mr Kenny Laho.
Speaking on the partnership, Arnaud Berthet stated “TotalEnergies EP PNG limited is very happy to support emerging, young talent in the Gulf Province by supporting the Gulf Isou rugby club.”
Carolyn Mom welcomed the support, highlighting its timely impact: “We thank you for the sponsorship funding that arrived at a timely moment. It supported when under 17 team, mainly made up of students form the Coronation Secondary school in Kerema.”
Team captain Smith Pamundi also shared the team’s mindset, noting “The team have learned from past mistakes in games and with a positive mindset are determined to win the next game.”
The Under-17 team provides a strong example of the direct impact of this sponsorship. Competing in their first national youth competition, the team reached the grand final. TotalEnergies’ contribution helped provide essential equipment, including rugby boots for 25 boys from Coronation Secondary School in Kerema, making a tangible difference in both training and performance.
Beyond the game, the sponsorship also supports inclusive community development through the Women in League Mori Seika program. This initiative creates opportunities for girls and women to get involved in rugby, while promoting personal development and life skills. Across Gulf Province, these programs help build confidence, encourage participation, and strengthen community engagement among women and girls. They also promote positive messages around education, wellbeing, and opportunity.
Gulf Isou’s role extends well beyond sport. The club brings together schools, local communities, government stakeholders, and development partners, forming a strong and connected network. By supporting the team, TotalEnergies contributes to this broader ecosystem, which promotes youth development, women’s empowerment, and community pride. It demonstrates how sport can unite people from different backgrounds and deliver real benefits across the province.
As the 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season continues, Gulf Isou remains a powerful symbol of determination and ambition for Gulf Province. The club has built a strong reputation through good governance, solid systems and consistent performance, earning recognition and trust across the rugby community, making this partnership particularly meaningful.
For TotalEnergies, this support goes beyond simple sponsorship visibility. It reflects a commitment to a respected organisation that delivers real value for its players and communities. TotalEnergies and its international partners in Papua LNG acknowledges the dedication of Gulf Isou’s leadership, coaches, players, and supporters, and is proud to continue supporting both the team and the province. This partnership demonstrates that when sport and community come together, they can create a lasting and meaningful impact.