The 29th Mount Cameroon Race of Hope painted a contrasting picture of Buea, showing a divided city. While the Molyko Omnisport stadium buzzed with excitement, the city itself resembled a ghost town. Most businesses remained closed, streets stood empty, and a sense of apprehension lingered.
This cautious atmosphere stemmed from last year’s bombings that tragically claimed a life. Security measures were visibly amplified: checkpoints sprang up along the route, helicopters patrolled the skies, and access to the stadium was tightly controlled. Vendors were even displaced as movable properties were cleared from the roads.
Reinforcements arrived from Douala, and Minister Mouele Kombi assured everyone of enhanced security measures.
The race itself unfolded under a calm, cloudy, and rainy sky, a stark contrast to the usual dusty conditions. Over 600 athletes, including 32 international participants, embarked on their challenging journey towards the summit.
The participants, from a total of 11 countries, including Cameroon, will run up to the summit of the Chariots of Gods and back to the field to check where the winner will be known in a few hours. The Cameroonian Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Narcise Mouele Kombi, said during the launch ceremoney last night that security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of the athletes and that of the population.
The celebratory theme, “Let’s Give Peace a Chance,” resonated with the heavy security presence. While the stadium pulsated with energy, the deserted streets reflected a lingering fear and a yearning for normalcy.
