Curtains have dropped on the 24th edition of the Ibrahim Talba Malla Tournament. Winners walked away with more than trophies, while top students were celebrated for academic excellence.
The town of Mora surged with excitement as thousands turned up to witness the final of the anticipated finals of the tournament that energised the entire Mayo-Sava division. Staged across four locations: Mora, the Massif area, Mémé-Warba, and Doulo-Djioundé, the tournament saw 58 teams competing. Each received full sporting kits, including jerseys, shorts, boots, bibs, gear bags, and match balls. All this was provided by sponsor, Minister Ibrahim Talba Malla. Mora hosted 16 teams. The Massif zone featured 14, split between the Plaine and Montagne sectors. Mémé-Warba had 12 teams. Doulo-Djioundé added another 16.
The event operates on an annual budget of at least 20 million FCFA, a figure that confirms the organiser’s support and deep personal involvement. The final in Mora attracted a crowd estimated between 2,000 and 3,500 people. Minister Talba Malla was physically present, personally overseeing the closing match. Over the years, the tournament has become more than more than a sports event. It forms part of a wider strategy to offer meaningful holiday experiences for young people. As head of the CPDM Permanent Divisional Delegation for Mayo-Sava, Ibrahim Talba Malla understands the urgency of keeping youth engaged.
Through sport, culture and community-led activities, he works to steer them away from idleness and risky behaviour. The closing ceremony on Sunday 17 August 2025 also marked the end of school and university holidays in the division. This year’s event was especially significant, representing 25 years of the Minister’s involvement in structuring constructive holiday programmes for young people across Mayo-Sava.
He also took time to reward academic achievement. The region’s top-performing students received school kits that included bags, didactic materials, uniforms, and bicycles. These practical gifts serve not only as recognition, but also as direct support to ease the burden on families. Ibrahim Talba Malla’s influence in the region is grounded in his long-standing public service, his native ties to Mora, and his constant physical presence during local events. He has been described not only as a politician but as a visible pillar in the social fabric of Mayo-Sava. In a part of the country affected by insecurity and economic challenges, the Minister’s initiative stands out. His focus on structure, mentorship and community spirit continues to offer hope and direction to the region’s young population.
Claudette Chin, With Field Reports
