In a grand gesture aimed at celebrating Cameroonian culture and philanthropy, Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy, globally known as the Toghu Marathoner, will donate his Guinness World Records-winning Toghu attire and certificate to the National Museum of Cameroon.
The official ceremony will take place on July 23, 2025, and will be held under the distinguished patronage of Cameroon’s Minister of Arts and Culture, Pierre Ismaël Bidoung Mkpwatt, and attended by dignitaries, officials, and international guests.
Fondzenyuy, affectionately known as ‘Nformi Kilé’ (General of Runners), has gained worldwide acclaim for completing marathons across six continents in Toghu—a traditional regalia from Cameroon’s Northwest Region, while raising funds for charity.
His historic achievements include setting a Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon in traditional Toghu attire at the 2024 Tokyo Marathon and becoming the first Cameroonian to complete the gruelling Antarctica Marathon in March 2025.
The Toghu Marathoner says it is more than just running for him, as he uses his achievements to raise money for community initiatives close to his heart, like education and the fight against autism.
“I run with purpose—because every child, no matter their challenges, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and shine. Especially those with autism, who are so often overlooked,” said Fondzenyuy, whose marathons support vulnerable communities through his Amom Foundation.
Through his foundation (www.amomfoundation.org), over 20,000 people have benefited from initiatives such as school and bridge construction, scholarships, girls’ education programmes, and autism awareness campaigns. Now, Fondzenyuy is championing the construction of a special needs school in Cameroon.
“Across Cameroon, too many children with autism and special needs are left behind—not because they lack potential, but because they lack access,” he stressed. “Through the Amom Foundation, we are building a school for children with special needs—a safe, inclusive space where they can learn, grow, and thrive with dignity. Help us build a future that includes every child.”
The Marathoner holds that the donation of his record-breaking Toghu attire symbolises a tribute to his homeland. “We are committed to ensuring that the Toghu Marathoner’s legacy inspires civic engagement, cultural pride, and diaspora contributions to nation-building,” said Chinedu Hardy Nwadike, Brand Manager for the initiative.
Fondzenyuy’s journey began in 2011 at the Thunder Road Marathon in Charlotte, USA, where he first ran to support underprivileged children. Since then, he has completed 19 marathons across six continents, earning the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star Medal. His efforts were recognised in 2023 with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from US President Joe Biden.
As Cameroon prepares to receive this iconic piece of sporting and cultural history, Fondzenyuy’s message remains clear: “Your support will lay the bricks, open the doors, and light up futures.”
By Andrew Nsoseka
