The excitement generated by the Bamenda III Council Inclusive Royal Tournament 2026 like previous editions extends far beyond the football pitch. Every matchday, the tournament transforms the playing ground into a thriving marketplace where dozens of traders earn a living from thousands of spectators drawn to the competition.
As the whistle blows for kick-off, another contest begins around the field, one of enterprise, and opportunity.
Rows of vendors line the venue selling soft drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, bottled water and energy drinks. Nearby, clouds of smoke rise from grills where roasted beef, popularly known as soya, is prepared for eager customers. Hawkers weave through the crowd balancing trays of boiled groundnuts, popcorn, chewing gum, biscuits and sweets, ensuring supporters never have to leave their seats for refreshments.
Among the most popular attractions is a corner reserved for one of the most sought-after delicacies, dog meat.
The business has developed its own unique marketing strategy. A red flag raised above the stand signals that the meat is ready to be served, while the flag is lowered whenever supplies run out or preparations are still underway. Regular patrons understand the silent signal and gather as soon as the flag goes up.
For many traders, football has become good business.
One drinks vendor, Tanwie who has followed the tournament for several editions, said matchdays have become the most profitable days of the week.
"When there is no football, sales are very poor," the vendor told Hilltopvoices adding that "but whenever the tournament is on, we can make between 15,000 and 25,000 FCFA profit in one day depending on the crowd."
That income is significant for many small business owners operating in a difficult economic environment shaped by years of instability.
For nearby shops and neighbourhood businesses, increased human traffic means higher sales and greater visibility.
Beyond the immediate financial benefits, the tournament demonstrates the growing economic value of community sport.
Events of this nature stimulate local commerce, encourage entrepreneurship and keep money circulating within the municipality. Rather than concentrating economic activity in large urban centres, they create opportunities for ordinary residents to earn an income from their skills, products and services.
The tournament also provides a platform for local businesses to market their products directly to large audiences while strengthening relationships within the community.
Organised under the theme "youth at the heart of inclusion and community development," the competition continues to prove that football is not only about goals and trophies. It is equally about livelihoods, enterprise and local economic resilience.
As crowds continue to grow, so too does the economic footprint of a tournament that has become one of Bamenda III's most important community events.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Web
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