2026 HIRI HANENAMO QUEST OPENS DOORS FOR WIDER MOTU KOITA REPRESENTATION

BY RAYLEEN WANJIMAN
The Motu Koita Assembly has expanded the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo Quest by giving more young Motu Koita women the opportunity to represent their communities and preserve their cultural heritage.

The Assembly says the expansion allows Motu Koita villages represented under the Assembly to nominate their own candidates, strengthening community involvement in one of the region’s significant cultural traditions.

Motu Koita Assembly Chairman and NCD Deputy Governor Russell Sioni says the quest is not only a celebration of beauty, but a platform to promote leadership, cultural knowledge and the preservation of Hiri Moale traditions.

Successful candidates will be expected to serve as cultural ambassadors, showcasing the history, language and identity of the Motu Koita people at local and international levels.

Applicants must be Motu Koita women aged between 18 and 25 years, meet educational and language requirements, and receive endorsement from their village leaders.

Applications for the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo Quest close on August 13t