The 31st edition of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope saw new champions crowned on February 21, 2026, in Buea: Ahmadou Bi Ibrahim in the men's category and Mary Grace Wirba in the women's. Ibrahim completed the course in 4 hours, 24 minutes, and 42 seconds, while Wirba clocked in at 5 hours, 22 minutes, and 11 seconds.
Ahmadou Bi Ibrahim, representing Afeum-Alah Athletics Club of Awing, not only won the race but also became the first athlete to reach the summit of Mount Cameroon in the lead and maintain that position until the finish line. He improved upon the time of Usheni Hassan, the 2025 winner. In the women's category, Mary Grace Wirba, known for her role as a referee in the Guinness Super League, surprised everyone by dominating the race and dethroning the defending champion, Tatah Carine.
Wirba's performance is all the more remarkable considering she is also a teacher. This victory highlights the versatility of Cameroonian female athletes and their increasing commitment to extreme physical challenges. Sidonie Njeyang took second place in the women's race, completing a podium dominated by the Northwest region.
The Cameroonian Athletics Federation hailed Ahmadou Bi Ibrahim's performance, emphasizing the pride in seeing a Cameroonian win the victory and set a new record. Secretary-General Charles Kouoh Kotte also expressed his delight at the strong mobilization of companies and the popular success of the event.
Under the protection of the defense and security forces, the event attracted a large crowd in Buea. The Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Narcisse Mouelle Kombi, expressed his satisfaction with the participation of 600 athletes from 14 different nationalities and the performances of the Cameroonian athletes.
The Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, in its 31st edition, remains one of Africa's most demanding trail races, attracting the best specialists in the discipline. The 2026 edition confirmed the high sporting level of the event and the potential of Cameroonian athletes.
The ascent of Mount Cameroon took place in a festive atmosphere, with the support of an enthusiastic crowd, demonstrating the importance of this event for the region and for Cameroon.
