Cultural Marathon
music, fashion, and storytelling
Who We Are
The Yaoundé Cultural Marathon (YCM) is a groundbreaking festival that unites sport, culture, and community. It is the first marathon in the world designed not only as a race but as a living cultural celebration — where runners, artists, musicians, and communities come together to showcase the best of Cameroon.
Born from the vision of Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy, known globally as the Toghu Marathoner and Guinness World Record holder, YCM stands as a national project of unity and pride.
Born from the vision of Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy, known globally as the Toghu Marathoner and Guinness World Record holder, YCM stands as a national project of unity and pride.
Our Inspiration
On July 2025, Afowiri donated his historic marathon artifacts to the National Museum of Cameroon — the Toghu top and trouser, running shoes, cap, Guinness World Record plaque, and the prestigious Abbott Six-Star Medal. Today, these treasures sit at the museum, inspiring every Cameroonian that anything is possible.
This act was more than a donation; it was the birth of a movement. The Yaoundé Cultural Marathon carries forward that legacy, transforming sport into a driver of culture, unity, and opportunity.
This act was more than a donation; it was the birth of a movement. The Yaoundé Cultural Marathon carries forward that legacy, transforming sport into a driver of culture, unity, and opportunity.
Experience
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Yaoundé
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Culture
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Tourism
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Beauty
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africa
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Together We Can
Start The Countdown
Our Mission
- Celebrate diversity: Highlight Cameroon’s rich heritage through a cultural marathon and festival.
- Boost tourism and economy: Attract thousands of local and international participants to stimulate growth.
- Promote inclusion: Ensure space for elders, youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
- Champion social causes: Advance autism awareness and inclusive education nationwide.
- Position Cameroon globally: Establish the nation as a hub for cultural diplomacy and sports tourism.
Our Vision
We envision the Yaoundé Cultural Marathon becoming a national festival — an annual or biennial celebration recognized across Africa and the world. It will be more than an event; it will be a movement of unity, culture, and pride that future generations will inherit.
run with us,
JOIN
the Festival!
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Inclusive & Diverse
elders, youth, and persons with disabilities -
Global Connections
Links with international organizations
Why We Are Unique
Cultural Marathon:
A race infused with masquerades, drumming, storytelling, fashion, and food.
Inclusive by Design:
Race categories for marathoners, fun runners, and inclusion walkers.
Global Connections:
Afowiri’s international marathon journey brings in partnerships and visibility.
Festival Spirit:
Beyond the race — a national carnival of music, arts, and heritage.
Tourism, Economy Impact
A driver of growth and opportunity
- 5B CFA yearly revenue
- 5,000+ direct jobs
- 15,000+ indirect jobs
- 40,000 runners by 2034
( 0 / 40,000 runners )
Social, Cultural Benefits
A festival of unity and inclusion
- Unity across 10 regions
- Autism awareness
- Inclusive education
- Women, youth & disability inclusion
( 0 / 195 Countries )
What Makes US Unique?
- Cultural Marathon: A race infused with masquerades, drumming, storytelling, food, and fashion.
- Inclusive by Design: Categories for marathoners, fun runners, elders, youth, and persons with disabilities.
- Festival Atmosphere: Beyond the run—live performances, craft markets, and cultural exhibitions.
- Global Connections: Linking Cameroon to diaspora networks and international cultural partners.
- Purpose & Impact: Boosts tourism, creative industries, and supports autism awareness & inclusive education.
Be part of history as Cameroon hosts the first-ever Cultural Marathon in the world.
Whether as a runner, volunteer, sponsor, or cultural performer — your place is here.
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The Yaoundé Cultural Marathon (YCM) is a groundbreaking festival that unites sport, culture, and community. It is the first marathon in the world designed not only as a race but as a living cultural celebration — where runners, artists, musicians, and communities come together to showcase the best of Cameroon.
Contact Info
- Rue Eglise Saint Marc, Opposite Saint Joseph. Biyemassi, Rond Point Express, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- +1 (281) 728-6247, +237 79139635
- info@runyaounde.com
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