Baligham village in Santa Subdivision, Mezam Division in the North West Region once again turned to sport as a powerful symbol of peace and unity with the launch of the 14th edition of its annual Peace and Unity Tournament.
The tournament, which kicked off on Thursday, August 6, 2026, attracted a large crowd of residents, traditional authorities, elites, women and young people, highlighting the community's commitment to preserving peace despite the challenges posed by the ongoing Anglophone crisis.
At the centre of the initiative is Fon Samkie Elvis Gahnyam II, who also serves as Mayor of the Santa Council. Over the years, he has earned recognition as one of the few traditional rulers in the North West Region who remained in their communities throughout the crisis rather than fleeing. His leadership has been widely credited with helping restore stability in Baligham while promoting development and social cohesion.
Residents say the successful organization of the tournament, now in its 14th consecutive edition, reflects the peaceful atmosphere that has gradually returned to the village. Many attribute this progress to the close collaboration between the Fon, the local administration, and the people of Baligham.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Fon Samkie Elvis Gahnyam II described the holiday sports festival as a cherished legacy inherited from his late father.
According to him, sport remains one of the strongest tools for bringing people together regardless of age, gender, or social background.
He explained that the annual event has become much more than a football competition. It provides an opportunity for Baligham sons and daughters from across Cameroon and the diaspora to reunite, strengthen family ties, and foster lasting friendships.
Over the years, the gathering has also created relationships that have resulted in marriages within the community.
This year's edition goes beyond football. It features activities dedicated to women and includes a fundraising campaign to support the construction of a Women's Empowerment Centre in the village. The centre is expected to provide vocational training and practical skills that will help women become more economically independent and contribute meaningfully to their families and the community.
Community elites praised the Fon for his vision and commitment to peace. Businessman Chinda Primus, one of Baligham's prominent elites based in Douala, described the traditional ruler as a courageous and development-oriented leader whose determination has inspired widespread support from both residents and members of the diaspora.
According to him, the confidence people have in the Fon's leadership explains why Baligham elites continue to provide financial and moral support whenever community development projects are launched.
He urged participants to uphold the spirit of fair play throughout the competition while encouraging Baligham elites to sustain their support for an initiative that has become an important pillar of peace, unity and security in the village.
The opening match lived up to expectations, with Yong Sport FC defeating New Layout FC 3-1 to begin the tournament on a winning note. The result set an exciting tone for a competition that residents hope will continue to strengthen bonds within the community while celebrating the values of peace, unity, and development.
Caution: Images not captured by Laarry Times.
@Laarry Times
Comments
Post a Comment