Afigya Kwabre North District has emerged winners of the maiden MTN Ghana Ashanti Festival (Ashantifest) regional U-17 football competition after a hard-fought victory over Atwima Nwabiagya North.

The champions triumphed 5-4 on penalties following a goalless draw in the final, played on a soggy pitch at the Paa Joe Park at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

Afigya Kwabre North defied expectations to overcome a well-drilled Atwima Nwabiagya North side that had been widely tipped to win the competition.

The tournament, the first of its kind in the Ashanti Region, was organised under the auspices of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, with support from telecommunications giant MTN Ghana.

The final formed part of activities marking the ongoing Ashanti Festival, with 41 out of the region’s 43 districts participating in the competition, which began in September 2025.

Final outcome

For emerging winners of the competition, Afigya Kwabre North team were presented a giant trophy, gold medals and a cash reward of GH¢50,000.

The first runners-up, Atwima Nwabiagya North, received silver medals, a trophy and a cash prize of GH¢30,000.

Afigya Kwabre South secured third place after edging Kwabre East 1-0 in the third-place match.

For their efforts, Kwabre South took home bronze medals and GH¢20,000, while Kwabre East received GH¢10,000.

Headline sponsor of the final event at Paa Joe Park, MTN Ghana, provided the giant trophy, medals, jerseys and other souvenirs.

Individual awards were also presented to outstanding players, who received trophies and cash rewards for their performances.

Agyei Wiafe Isaac of Afigya Kwabre South was adjudged Best Goalkeeper, Yussif Seidu of Kwabre East won the Best Defender award, while Desmond Ahiatsi emerged top scorer with three goals.

The Most Promising Player award went to Haruna Nurudeen of Afigya Kwabre North, while Desmond Nkrumah was named Most Valuable Player.

Regional team plans

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Dr Frank Amoakohene re-emphasised his commitment to ensuring that the competition serves as a platform to nurture grassroots football, giving young players the opportunity to showcase their skills on a competitive stage.

The minister announced that a regional team would be formed from the competition, while discussions continue on their future.

Dignitaries present at the final included the Chief Executive Officer of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly and Mayor, Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi; the Deputy Defence Minister, Ernest Brogya Genfi; Otumfuo’s representative, Germaine Naatey; and the Brands and Communications Senior Manager of MTN Ghana, among others.