Published by: Alhassan S Suhiyini
The Member of Parliament for Karaga Constituency and former Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Anta, has officially launched the 2026 Tumalana Community Games at the Pishigu Astro Turf.
The colorful opening ceremony, held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, was organized in collaboration with the Karaga District Football Association and brought together community leaders, football enthusiasts, and residents from across the constituency.
The tournament aims to promote peace, unity, and social cohesion while creating opportunities for talented young footballers to showcase their abilities and pursue their dreams.
A total of 16 zones have been grouped into four groups for the preliminary stage of the competition, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout phase. Participating teams include Karaga A, Karaga B, Pishigu A, Pishigu B, Shellilanyili Zone, Yemo Karaga Zone, Nagung Zone, Nyong Zone, Tamaligu/Bagurugu Zone, Sung Zone, Kupali/Monk Zone, Komkomba Zone, Zandua/Dim Zone, Kopliga/Kpasong Zone, and Bagli/Gbanlua Zone.
As part of his commitment to youth development, Dr. Anta donated football kits, balls, and other logistical support to all participating teams.To motivate players, the Member of Parliament announced that MVPs from every match will receive football boots. In addition, trophies, medals, and substantial cash prizes await the teams that finish first, second, and third in the competition.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Anta revealed that the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper, Best Player, and Top Scorer will each be offered an opportunity to travel to Dubai or Qatar for professional football trials.
“Football is more than a game. It is an industry that can transform lives. From this AstroTurf, we can discover the next Baba Rahman and the next Abdul Fatawu Issahaku. My office and I will continue to support initiatives that give our young people opportunities to shine,” he stated.
Matches will be played across three venues within the constituency: the Karaga Astro Turf, Kpason Astro Turf, and Pishigu Astro Turf.The six-week competition is expected to attract football scouts from various locations, with many expected to attend the grand finale.
The opening match saw Nyong Zone defeat Tamaligu/Bagurugu Zone 2-0, becoming the first team to record a victory and score in the competition. Mahama Abdullah of Nyong Zone was named the tournament’s first Most Valuable Player (MVP) and received a pair of football boots for his outstanding performance.
