The 31st edition of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope has been officially launched by the Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Narcisse Mouelle Kombi, under the theme “Let’s Give Peace a Chance.” The ceremony, held on February 20, 2026, brought together athletes like seven times female winner of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope Sarah Etonge, cultural groups, including the culture of the day,” Bakweri culture”and sports stakeholders in a colourful celebration of unity and national pride.
In his address, the minister emphasized that this year’s theme promotes self-reliance while reaffirming the role of sports as a powerful tool for peace, unity, and national integration. He noted that beyond competition, the race stands as a symbol of harmony and collective identity.
The launch ceremony showcased Cameroon’s rich cultural heritage, with several traditional groups performing. The Bakweri culture stood out prominently, reflecting the community’s deep connection to the mountain, as the race takes place on their ancestral land.
According to the final list released by the Cameroon Athletics Federation, about 600 athletes will compete in this year’s event. The majority—588 runners—are Cameroonians, while 22 foreign athletes will represent their respective countries.
Participants are drawn from 14 nations, including Morocco, Congo, Kenya, Uganda, Mali, Nigeria, Germany, South Africa and the Central African Republic.
Founded in 1973, the competition—also known as “La Course de l’Espoir”—is one of Africa’s most demanding endurance races. Athletes tackle the steep slopes of Mount Cameroon, covering a challenging course that climbs to an altitude of over 4,000 meters above sea level.
As anticipation builds, the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope once again stands as a celebration of resilience, cultural pride, and the unifying spirit of sport, reinforcing its legacy as one of Cameroon’s most iconic sporting events.
