Baligham village in Santa Subdivision, Mezam Division, came alive on Sunday, August 17, as His Royal Majesty Samkie Elvis Gahnyam II, Fon of Baligham and Mayor of Santa Council, presided over the finals of the 13th edition of the Peace and Unity Tournament, a community sports festival he founded to foster cohesion and solidarity.
The event, staged at the Government School Mifikat and Centre Fields, drew hundreds of residents and visitors who cheered football, handball and veteran matches animated by traditional dances.
Winners Jubilating
The finals ended with Mombe Lions clinching the football title after edging White Cat FC of Yaoundé 1–0, while Young Star Ladies of Bamenda crushed Virtuous Women of Douala to win the handball crown. In the veterans’ category, Baligham Young Veterans Bamenda beat their Douala counterparts 5–4 on penalties.
HRH Samkie Elvis Gahnyam II, Fon of Baligham and Santa Mayor Addressing the Crowd.
Addressing the jubilant crowd, HRM Samkie Elvis Gahnyam II saluted the spirit of fair play and sacrifice displayed throughout the two-week tournament, hailing the youth for “pausing lucrative businesses” to celebrate unity and culture. He praised Baligham’s resilience in preserving peace since the outbreak of the North West and South West crisis in 2016.
“I am proud of my community, a peace-loving people who have worked like one man to maintain stability,” the monarch declared. He urged vigilance against troublemakers, called for steadfastness in preserving harmony, and reminded villagers to respect state institutions.
Baligham Elite Addressing the Crowd.
The tournament’s President General, Prince Galabe Eric Zanyin, described the event as “a veritable unifying avenue” that renews hope each year. Local elite Henry Babila echoed the sentiment, stressing that Baligham remains one of the most peaceful communities in the North West.
“This annual rendezvous is a time to showcase living together and to reaffirm our commitment to the unity of Cameroon as preached by President Paul Biya,” he said, while urging Baligham sons and daughters in the diaspora to return and invest in development.
Cross Section of the Teams During the Finals.
Beyond the games, the finals also featured the award of cash prizes to outstanding players, including best goal scorer, goalkeeper, young talent and fair play team.
As Baligham’s fields reverberated with chants, drums and dance, the Peace and Unity Tournament reaffirmed its place as more than just sport. For the Fon, his council, and his people, it is a rallying point for community strength, cultural pride and the continued pursuit of peace.
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