The inaugural East Honiara Constituency Easter Games 2026 (EHCEG) kicked off in style on Sunday at the Naha Playing Field in East Honiara, marked by a vibrant opening ceremony.
The event began with a colourful parade featuring communities from across the East Honiara Constituency (EHC), setting the tone for a week of sporting festivity.
Delivering the keynote address, Member of Parliament (MP) for East Honiara Constituency, Hon. Morris Toiraena, described the event as the beginning of a new chapter for the constituency.
“For too long, East Honiara has been known for the wrong reasons. Too often when people speak of our communities, they speak of trouble, unrest and disorder,” he said.
“But today, we stand together to say that story ends here and now. Today, we begin to write a new history for East Honiara.
“Through these Easter Games, we are not just competing but we are connecting, building unity, and creating opportunities for our young people to rise above negative influences and step into a future filled with purpose.”
The Easter Games will feature teams from various communities competing in seven-a-side soccer for both men and women, mixed volleyball, and an Under-14 futsal competition, with attractive prizes up for grabs.
Mr Toiraena said the initiative is aimed at fostering respect and building character within communities.
“When our youth step onto those fields and courts, they are not just players, they are leaders in the making.
“They are ambassadors of a new East Honiara and one no longer defined by hostility, loitering, or trouble-making,” he said.
He also urged young people in the constituency to refrain from unlawful activities and embrace positive choices.
“To our young people, this is your moment. Choose discipline over distraction, choose teamwork over division, and choose growth over negativity.
“To our community leaders and families, stand firm, guide our youth, encourage them, and walk alongside them,” he added.
Toiraena further announced that the Easter Games will become an annual event, with plans for expansion in the coming years.
Meanwhile, official competition draws were conducted following the opening ceremony, with matches set to commence on Monday morning.
