Y 97.9 FM, Ghana’s number one urban radio station, in collaboration with the leadership of the Zongo communities in Takoradi has organized a football gala dubbed 'The Zongo Hood Games' at the Sekondi Red Park.

The YFM initiative meant to bring the Muslim communities in the Western Region together to compete in a friendly soccer tournament was under the theme ‘Say No to Political Vigilantism’.

This year’s event had nine (9) communities participating in the ‘Zongo Hood Games’. Communities represented included ‘Apremdo’, ‘Effia’, ‘Effiekuma’, ‘Kweikuma’, ‘Kwesimintim’, ‘Sekondi,’ ‘Kojokrom’, ‘Takoradi’ and ‘Tanokrom Zongo’ with ‘Kojokrom Zongo’ emerging champions of the 2019 Edition of the games.

The Western Regional Chief Imam, Imam Assan Ali, who was the Special Guest of Honour urged Zongo Youths to always choose peace no matter the circumstances.

‘’The Muslim youth are always seen as violent. I urge you all to change that narrative and choose peace. Several political parties since independence have engaged the services of youth groups especially Muslim youth and lately some vigilante groups resorted to illegal acts; including confiscation of both private and state property. Forced eviction and the ejection of state officials from their apartments, physical assault of former government appointees, and other human rights abuses. But it is time we say no political vigilantism, that is why the theme for the Zongo Hood Games is timely”. Imam Assan Ali said.

Programmes Manager for YFM Takoradi Mr. Agyekum Gyimah Akwasi commended Miksi, Mandazi by Penda foods, Talent Promotions and Twellium Industries for their support and reiterated the need for peace in the Zongo Communities.

"Peace is a key component of sustainable development. A healthy business environment is important for development, and in conflict-ridden communities, business operations are disrupted due to the unreliable social services and the prevalence of social problems such as poverty, hunger and inequality. So let’s always choose peace so that our communities will see rapid development" Mr. Agyekum said.