The final day of the Bamenda III Council Inclusive Royal Tournament 2025 was a spectacle of colour, and community spirit. From the morning showers that drenched the sandy pitch to the dramatic crowning of King City FC of Mbefi as champions, everything about this edition confirmed its place as one of the municipality’s most memorable tournaments.
Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe handing medals
The day opened with a downpour, soaking the pitch just as Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe and his distinguished guests arrived. The rain returned moments later, interrupting the anticipated Goal Ball match for persons with visual impairment, but not the spirit of inclusion. As soon as the showers subsided, the players reassembled and thrilled the crowd, reinforcing the council’s message that sport in Bamenda III is for everyone.
Soon after, the atmosphere shifted into celebration mode. In a processional reminiscent of global football show pieces, the trophies and prizes were paraded onto the field gleaming symbols of achievement lined up in order: the Golden Glove, the Golden Boot, the Referee’s Golden Trophy, the Golden Ball, the keys of the motorcycle for Best Player, silver medals, gold medals, and finally the grand Champions’ Trophy. Excitement built in the stands as each prize was carefully displayed, a visual promise of glory to come.
The teams’ entrance added to the grandeur. One by one, players were called by name, stepping forward proudly in red-and-white jerseys provided by lead sponsor Boissons du Cameroun. Their presence was marked by a palpable sense of pride, magnified by the cheers of supporters waving banners and flags.
DO Ayuni Austin Sakah, Mayor Fongu Cletus and Fon Azehfor III
Before the ball rolled, Deputy Mayor Koti Joseph led a solemn prayer, invoking blessings for fair play and unity. Then came the official kick-off ceremony, led by Mayor Fongu and flanked by the Divisional Officer for Bamenda III Subdivision, Ayuni Austin Sakah, the Fon of Nkwen, HRH Fon Azehfor III, and Ngwani Jackson, who represented Boissons du Cameroun and other sponsors.
In a symbolic gesture, they all donned the same sportswear, presenting an image of leadership in unity. Smiling, they shook hands with the players, posed for group photographs, and passed the ball among themselves before Jackson delivered a long, ceremonial kick that officially launched the final.
The kick-off
In terms of branding, the 2025 edition set a new benchmark. The organisers unveiled a branded podium and a giant backdrop for official photographs, ensuring every winning moment was captured in style.
Podium set for award of award of medals
The world class medals made available by Watsa Group alongside the trophies were all branded.
A special winners’ banner was unfurled after the Champions’ Trophy presentation, immortalising the victorious team’s celebration. Each trophy bore the name of its category, while certificates of recognition were awarded not only to players and referees but also to sponsors, volunteers, and individuals who have contributed to improving sports infrastructure in Bamenda III.
The Best Player prize
The most eye-catching prize of the evening was the motorcycle donated by diaspora businessman Austin Tanui, set aside for the Best Player. Properly branded and parked pitch-side, it drew murmurs of admiration as fans whispered about the growing role of the diaspora in shaping sports and community development back home.
Every partner and sponsor was given visibility throughout the tournament featuring on printed materials, banners, and even in the striking graphics that dominated the competition’s publicity.
By the time the medals were placed around necks, the trophies lifted high, and the final photographs taken, it was clear that this was way beyond a football tournament. It was a celebration of identity, solidarity, and professional organisation in the heart of Bamenda III.
Also adding weight to the grandeur of the 2025 edition was the presence of Elvis Ndi Tseabom, Secretary General of the Regional League of FECAFOOT, who attended both the final and the award night. The celebration later hosted at El Palacio Snack and Hotel mirrored the class and quality the tournament had showcased throughout from the comfortable settings, lively animation, captivating entertainment, and the dramatic “flying mode” arrival of the Champions’ Trophy. It was the perfect climax to a competition that had combined community spirit with a touch of glamour.
The 2025 edition, from its rainswept beginning to its dazzling finale, stood out for the careful thought invested in inclusion, branding, and presentation with a clear indication that the Bamenda III Council Inclusive Royal Tournament is no longer just a community event, it has become a model of how grassroots sport can inspire pride, unity, and hope.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77
