The final of the third edition of the Mbelem Development Tournament was marked by a solemn reflection on Sunday, as players, referees, organisers and spectators observed a minute of silence in memory of Ngemnyi Rosy-Bright Asafor, the 11-year-old girl shot dead in Nkwen on Monday, 1 September 2025.
Coming barely a day after her burial in Alahlieh-Nkwen, the gesture highlighted how far the shock and pain of her killing have spread. Though Mbelem is miles away from the burial site, the organisers said the community could not remain indifferent.
Standing in a semi-circle and sandwiched by the match officials, players bowed their heads as the stadium fell silent. Tournament Coordinator Yoye Blaise explained the significance of the observance.
Yoye Blaise, tournament coordinator ahead of final kickoff “Mbelem could not be left out of such a grieving moment in the Fondom. The murder of Ngemnyi has touched us all, and it was only right that we paused to honour her memory before the final.” he said
Moments of silence have become a symbolic ritual in football, connecting the sport to broader community life. They serve not only as acts of remembrance, but also as unifying gestures where players and fans alike share in grief, solidarity and resilience.
"Considering that this is a community initiative with very little funding, I wish thank those who supported us to make this a reality. Let me thank particularly Ntung Austin, Hon. Che Ndaka Nicolas, Akoh, Tanwie Remijus, Ngu Linus Tamajong, Nuhbong Eric Awabeng, Louis of ACHICO FA,Tata Bertrand, Suh Sylvester (Assistant quarterhead)" for supporting us financially and making these young footballers happy" Yoye Blaise added
On the pitch, ACHICO Football Academy edged out defending champions Loyalty SC with a narrow 1–0 victory to claim this year’s title.
The Youth President of Mbelem, Derick Akama, who performed the ceremonial kick-off, expressed gratitude to all those who supported the tournament. He emphasised that the annual competition is not just about football, but about the growth and unity of the quarter.
“The tournament has one objective which is to promote the development of Mbelem.” Akama said
The assistant quarterhead of Mbelem, Suh Sylvester, handed over the winners’ trophy, congratulating the champions and urging all participants to remain responsible, particularly in matters of security and community development.
The Mbelem Development Tournament, now in its third edition, featured 15 teams and continues to establish itself as a platform for youth engagement, talent discovery and community cohesion.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
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