The dynamic youth who hails from Nkum Sub division in Bui, is using football as a unifying force and a tool for opportunity in an area affected by the socio-political crisis.
At a time when many young people in Nkum Subdivision – Bui Division in the North West region have dropped out of school, fled their villages, or taken up arms amid the crisis, Alhadji Kongyuy Khalir Lemnyuy, has turned to football to bring his peers back together under the banner of peace and unity.
Launched on March 6, 2026, the tournament brings together six teams – Tatum Star, Memfu FC, Nseh FC, Veteran FC, Nsaa FC and Young Talent and is expected to run through May, when the finals will be played. But beyond the fixtures and scores, the competition carries a deeper purpose.
Nkum, like much of Kumbo, continues to grapple with an uncertain security situation marked by sporadic attacks, kidnappings for ransom, and persistent fear. For many youths, daily life has been reduced to staying indoors, unsure of what the next day may bring. Yet on match days in Tatum – Nkum subdivisional headquarter, the atmosphere tells a different story. Laughter and cheers echo across the field. “This tournament is a first of its kind and I am very excited to have something animate our area,” says Nformi Clinton, one of the enthusiastic coordinators. “Football makes people forget their problems for a while and we need it to gradually come out of the stalemate the crisis has put us under.”
Teams drawn from villages such as Memfu, Nseh, Tatum and Mbam Nsong have turned the competition into a meeting point, a space where bonds are rekindled. For Alhadji Kongyuy, the motivation is deeply personal. He speaks of a community shaken by displacement, fear, and a loss of trust, where even the simple desire to return home has faded for many, and the once common joie de vivre has quietly eroded. With football widely seen as a rallying force, he envisioned a platform where young people could reconnect, compete, and rediscover a sense of purpose. “In places like ours, talent exists but remains unseen,” Kongyuy explains. “When you mention Kumbo Strikers somewhere, people recognize this football team because it made its mark back in the days. We still have such talent here, but without exposure, no one knows them. This tournament is a beginning.”
Beyond the matches, the tournament also serves as a space for engagement and sensitization. Through these gatherings, the promoter speaks to the youth about civic responsibility, entrepreneurship, and the need to rebuild their lives through meaningful pursuits. His message extends even to those who have taken to the bushes, urging them to lay down their arms and reintegrate into society. “This is about bringing people together again, giving them hope, and showing that there are still better paths to follow.” The initiative is entirely self-funded. A businessman by trade, Ahadji Kongnyuy says the winning team will take home a prize of 500,000 CFA amongst other incentives for participants. A handball tournament for girls is also being held on the sidelines, ensuring that young women are not left out of the movement. So far, four teams are taking part in the handball competition. Encouraged by the enthusiasm and turnout, Kongyuy has expressed hopes that in future editions, other stakeholders and elites will join in supporting the initiative, expanding its reach and impact.
Claudette Chin
