Mbefi's King City FC Lifts Trophy of Bamenda III Council Inclusive Royal Tournament

Mayor Fongu, Nkwen Fon, and Bamenda III DO Celebrating Victory with King City FC of Mbefi.

Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe of Bamenda III Council has hailed the success of the 15th edition of the Council’s Inclusive Royal Tournament, describing it as a unifying platform that continues to keep youths engaged, promote inclusion, and foster peace in the municipality despite prevailing insecurity.

Fongu Cletus Tanwe, Mayor of Bamenda III Council Addressing the Population.

Speaking at the closing ceremony on Sunday, August 24, 2025, the Mayor, and sponsor of the competition, congratulated King City FC of Mbefi, who lifted this year’s trophy after defeating Bayelle FC in a thrilling final. 

Both Finalist Immortalize Event Before Kick Off of Finals.

It was a moment of redemption for the side, who fell short in last year’s final but returned stronger to be crowned champions in 2025.

“We are very happy because of the turnout, the enthusiasm, and the discipline of both the population and the teams throughout this tournament,” Mayor Fongu said. “When people show love and support for an initiative, it means it is something good. This tournament keeps our youths occupied in a time of insecurity and ensures they remain nation-builders for the future.”

Cross Section of Officials At the Groundstand.

The Mayor extended special thanks to the Divisional Officer of Bamenda III Subdivision, Ayuni Austin, and His Royal Highness Fon Azehfor III of Nkwen for their support, describing them as pillars who have ensured the continuity and success of the competition.

A Tournament of Unity and Inclusion

The tournament was also marked by inclusive sporting activities, including Goal Ball played by athletes with visual impairment, reinforcing the theme of celebrating talents, culture, and diversity through sports. In previous editions, amputee football was featured, highlighting the council’s long-standing commitment to social inclusion.

Goal Ball Exclusively for Persons with Disabilities Introduced in this 5th Edition.

The final was attended by several dignitaries, including the North West FECAFOOT Secretary General, Ndi Elvis; the DO of Bamenda III, Ayuni Austin; and HRH Fon Azehfor III of Nkwen. Each in turn praised the initiative, highlighting its role in strengthening community bonds and promoting discipline among youths.

Mayor Fongu Celebrating Victory with the Under 15th  Champions.

This year’s edition also emphasized inclusion, with people with visual impairments showcasing their skills in Goal Ball, a special event that underlined the tournament’s theme: “Uniting in our diversity to celebrate talents, culture, and inclusion through sports.” In previous editions, amputee football had been featured, further demonstrating the Council’s commitment to inclusive sporting practices.

Awards and Recognitions

The tournament featured 12 teams drawn from different quarters of Nkwen, competing in 25 matches over the course of a month. According to Organizing Committee Secretary General, Ciracus Tanwie, the competition recorded 96 yellow cards and 8 red cards, reflecting the intensity and passion of the games.

Special prizes were awarded at the closing ceremony. King City FC’s Tamajong Sylas claimed both the Best Player and Top Scorer awards, while Nkwelar Ernest of Ngwe Ngwe FC was named Best Coach. Referee Njichu Clovis was recognized as Best Referee, and Olympic FC Teken took home the award for Most Disciplined Team.

King City FC of Mbefi Celebrating Their Victory.

Thanks to the support of sponsors, including Boissons du Cameroun, Nkwen Cooperative Credit Union, Golden Star Academy, and El Palacio, prizes worth more than 3.7 million FCFA were distributed. A brand-new motorbike, donated by Austin Tanwe, was awarded to the best player, a gesture widely applauded by fans and participants alike.

    HRH Azehfor III, Fon of Nkwen Village.

Voices of Support

Fon Azehfor III described the 2025 edition as a “tournament of peace, living together, and development,” urging youths to uphold discipline and responsibility as core values both on and off the pitch.

Ayuni Austin, Divisional Officer of Bamenda III Subdivision.

DO Ayuni Austin echoed this message, emphasizing that the discipline displayed by both players and supporters demonstrated the community’s willingness to rally behind their leaders. “The Bamenda III Inclusive Royal Tournament has come to stay,” he said. “It is a platform for peace, unity, and fair play, and we must continue to preserve it.”

Ngwani Jackson Ngala, Representative of the Chief of Commercial Service.

From the sponsor’s side, Boissons du Cameroun reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots football through its flagship brand 33 Export. “Football is a uniting factor. When the community grows, businesses grow too. That is why we will continue to support this tournament,” said Ngwani Jackson Ngala, representing the company.

Looking Ahead

Mayor Fongu announced that future editions of the tournament will feature more teams, enhanced prizes, and improved infrastructure to meet the competition’s growing stature. He also assured that security, which was guaranteed this year, would remain a priority to ensure the safety of players and fans alike.

“As of now, Bamenda III hosts the biggest grassroots football tournament in the region,” the Mayor declared. “Our duty is to maintain this status, continue to spotlight our youths, and build talents that will one day shine on the national and international stage.”

Brand New Motorcycle Handed to the Best Player of Tournament Sylas.

For King City FC of Mbefi and the thousands of fans who thronged the field, this year’s tournament ended in jubilation. But for Bamenda III, it was more than just football, it was a celebration of peace, culture, and inclusion through sport.