The fifth edition of the Big Mankon Community Football Tournament has officially been launched in Bamenda, bringing together youth teams, sports officials, and community leaders under the banner of peace, unity, and youth development.
The kickoff of the tournament, held on Sunday, May 4, 2026, at the Big Mankon School Field, was launched by Ndi Tsembom Elvis, Secretary General of FECAFOOT for the North West region, accompanied by the Subdelegate of Sports and Physical Education for Bamenda II.
Organizers say the competition is aimed at reviving grassroots football in Bamenda while steering young people away from social problems such as drug abuse and delinquency.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, the President of the Big Mankon Community Football Tournament, Nche Noel, traced the origins of the tournament to 2019. “The idea of this tournament was initiated in 2019 with the aim of bringing together clubs that train on this field every Monday under the canopy of love through football,” he said.
He praised earlier organizers for laying “a good foundation” that has led to four successful editions and the launch of a fifth season.
Nche Noel paid tribute to several individuals for their contributions to the growth of the tournament, including Obiaraeri Emmanuel, Bobo Lennox, Cavour, and Cletus Moiwo.
Special recognition was also given to Ngeh Yuh Gilbert for helping revive football activities in the city.
The proprietor of St. Frederick Comprehensive College, Michael Mubang, was equally commended for supporting football development in the community. Organizers stressed that the tournament is not politically motivated but rather focused on community development and discipline among young people.
Speaking to Laarry Times, the Sports Coordinator of the competition, Tibui Michael, said the tournament seeks to encourage sportsmanship and positive social values among youths. “The whole point of the tournament is to encourage sports and fight against things like drugs, to occupy the youths so they are not derailed by social ills,” he explained. He added that the competition also promotes discipline and good behaviour among participants and supporters.
Ten teams are taking part in this year’s edition, including AYC FC One, AYC FC Two, St. Augustine FC, Challengers FC, Ntaghang FC, Big Stone FC, Rock City FC, Soccer FC One, Soccer FC Two, and Spice FC.
Although all participating clubs are based in Bamenda, organizers said members of the diaspora are also supporting the initiative.
The opening fixtures produced a series of competitive encounters. Challengers FC drew 1-1 with AYC FC One, while AYC FC Two defeated Ntaghang FC 2-1.
In another match, Big Stone FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory over St. Augustine FC. The final game of the day saw Rock City FC overpower Soccer FC with a convincing 4-0 win.
As the tournament gets underway, organizers are calling on fans and spectators to maintain discipline throughout the competition. “Let’s all stay disciplined and composed and enjoy ourselves while the tournament unfolds,” Nche Noel urged during his address.
The Big Mankon Community Football Tournament has increasingly become a symbol of grassroots unity and youth engagement in Bamenda, with organizers hoping the fifth edition will further strengthen community ties through sport.
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