Before the finals, the village had cleaned up schools and used the finals as an opportunity to reward outstanding students with scholarships
The 2026 Edition of the Mankon Unity Cup has ended in Bamenda with a strong call for the effective resumption of schools and a rejection of separatist activities that continue to disrupt the lives of communities in the North West Region.
The football competition, organised to promote unity, peace and community engagement, brought together youths and community members in Mankon under the theme; "unconditional forgiveness."
Beyond football, the Fon of Mankon, His Majesty Fo FAN Angwafo IV, used the tournament to promote education and encourage young people to stay away from activities that could threaten peace and security in the community.
"We the Mankon people say No to ghost towns. We firmly reject all separatist activities in Mankon. We unite like one man to say yes to our children going back to school.
"My children, let no one fool you. Education is the only thing that guarantees you a future. Let no one deceive you. Go to school, study hard and make this community proud." Fon FAN Angwafo IV said.
The same message was re-echoed by Prince Muma Angwafo III. He called on all separatist fighters to leave Mankon alone. He said they don't have any business with Mankon. He stated emphatically that after 10 years of their activities, Makon cannot count a single benefit and it were time for them to leave.
"What has been our benefits of respecting incessant ghost towns and lockdowns for these years? How has it helped us? It is time we say enough. We will not continue to honour destruction in our land." Muma Angwafo said.
Ahead of the finals, the Mankon community embarked on a clean-up exercise in schools, preparing the institutions for the new academic year and sending a message about the importance of creating a conducive environment for learning.
The finals also provided an opportunity to recognise and encourage academic excellence. Outstanding students were rewarded with scholarships, in a gesture aimed at supporting their education and motivating other young people to take their studies seriously.
The combination of sports, education and community action was presented as part of efforts to strengthen unity and encourage young people to make positive choices.
Participants and community leaders used the occasion to call for an effective and uninterrupted return to school, stressing that children should not be deprived of education because of the ongoing crisis.
They also condemned separatist activities and called on youths to reject violence and other actions that could further destabilise the community.
The organisers stressed that football can serve as more than entertainment. When properly used, sports can bring people together, build relationships among young people and create opportunities for communities to discuss issues affecting their future.
On the field of play, Shockers FC of Alachu Mile 7 Mankon overpowered their counterparts of Alakuma FC by beating them 1 goal to zero.
The win means that Shockers FC have now won the competition a record three times in a row and sparked waves of celebrations across Mankon.
The competition in its 14th Edition also saw the participation of girls in Women’s Football.
Ball pickers of school going age were also rewarded with didactic materials, this to ensure them to continue studying hitchfree.
The Mankon Unity Cup therefore ended not only as a sporting event, but also as a platform for promoting peace, education, community cleanliness and youth responsibility.
The grand finale was witnessed amongst others by the President of the North West Regional Assembly, Prof Fru Angwafo III and the Fons of Bamendakwe and Bambili.
0 Comments