The Bamenda III Council Inclusive Royal Tournament 2025 came to a thrilling close on Sunday 24 August, with King City FC of Mbefi defeating Bayelle FC 2–1 in a gripping final to lift the trophy. The newcomers capped their fairy-tale campaign in front of a packed crowd at the Niboung School Field, securing both glory and community pride.
The final was defined by the brilliance of Tamajong Sylas, who netted the decisive winning goal to secure victory for King City. His outstanding form throughout the competition earned him the double distinction of Best Player of the Tournament and Highest Goal Scorer, with a tally of seven goals.
Other individual and team honours reflected the tournament’s breadth of talent and discipline:
- Best Coach: Nkwelar Ernest (Ngwe Ngwe FC)
- Best Referee: Njichu Clovis
- Most Disciplined Team: Olympic FC of Teken
- Most Disciplined Fan Club: Sporting FC of Bayelle Manda
- Most Entertaining Fan Club: Ngwe Ngwe FC
- Most Improved Player on Discipline: Asongwe McDonald
One of the high points of the closing ceremony was the presentation of a brand-new motorcycle to Best Player Tamajong Sylas, a prize donated by Austin Tanui, a South Africa-based businessman from Nkwen. The gesture, warmly applauded by fans and officials alike, underlined the growing role of the diaspora in shaping community development through sport.
Speaking on behalf of the organising committee, Tanwie Ciracus, Secretary General, described the tournament as “a resounding success, marked by discipline and the absence of major incidents.”
Lead sponsor Boissons du Cameroun, represented by Ngwani Jackson of the Bamenda service centre, congratulated the organisers and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to community-building initiatives.
“This tournament has shown once again that sport is a powerful unifier. We stand ready to continue supporting events that bring people together, and we encourage more sponsors to come on board so that the competition can grow even bigger,” he said.
The final was presided over by the Patron of the Tournament, Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe, who was flanked by the Divisional Officer for Bamenda III Subdivision, Ayuni Austin Sakah, and the Fon of Nkwen, HRH Fon Azehfor III, as guests of honour.
Mayor Fongu used the occasion to commend the teams, fans, and sponsors for their dedication, while calling on citizens to embrace civic responsibility ahead of the 12 October presidential elections.
Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe speaking during the final
“This tournament has proven that when we come together, we can achieve success peacefully. I encourage all of us to extend this same spirit of participation to national life by collecting your voters cards and voting on election day.” he said.
With 12 teams competing over several weeks, the Bamenda III Council Inclusive Royal Tournament once again lived up to its billing as one of the most engaging grassroots competitions in the North West Region. From surprise victories such as Ngwe Ngwe FC’s elimination of defending champions Alahlieh FC to the fan clubs that brought colour to the stands, the 2025 edition was as entertaining as it was unifying.
Before the final, spectators were treated to a thrilling display of Goal Ball by people with visual impairment, a highlight that underscored the inclusive spirit of the Bamenda III Council Tournament. This followed the precedent set in the 2022 edition, when an amputee football match was staged to celebrate the abilities of persons with disabilities. Emphasising the council’s commitment to social inclusion, Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe said such activities are vital in “showcasing talent, building confidence, and reminding us that sport belongs to everyone.” The Goal Ball winners were also rewarded with cash prizes drawing loud applause from the crowd.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77
