HRM Njie Mbonde’s Prediction Fulfilled as Bi Ibrahim Returns to Palace After Mount Cameroon Race of Hope Victory

By Angu Lesley

When Chief Albert Njie Mbonde confidently told mountain runner Hamadou Bi Ibrahim that he would win the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, the words carried the weight of faith, tradition, and conviction. On Saturday, that prediction became reality.

Bi Ibrahim conquered the slopes of Mount Cameroon to emerge overall winner, adding to his growing reputation after earlier success at the Ikundi Tewa Mini Mountain Race in Bokwaongo. The victory was celebrated not only as a personal achievement, but as a triumph shared with the Bokwaongo community and its traditional leadership.

Hours after crossing the finish line, the champion made a symbolic return to the Membea Bokwaongo Palace, where he was warmly received by Chief Albert Njie Mbonde. The visit was one of gratitude — Bi Ibrahim came to personally thank the Chief and the people of Bokwaongo for their prayers, encouragement, and unwavering support throughout his journey.

Recalling a promise made earlier in Mboogambo, the Chief reflected on the spiritual significance of the moment, saying:

When you won the Ekundi Award in Mboogambo, you promised to take us to the summit and bring us back as number one. Today, I am truly happy because the God of my mountain, the God of Mboogambo, and the Almighty God have seen you through to this victory.”

Beyond celebration, the palace reception also carried a message for the future. Chief Albert Njie Mbonde used the occasion to challenge indigenous athletes to adopt the same seriousness, discipline, and commitment shown by Bi Ibrahim, stressing that excellence on the mountain begins with preparation and character.

The victory came during a historic weekend for the Chief himself. After more than 15 years as Master of Ceremony of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, Albert Njie Mbonde was honoured and formally retired from that role, choosing instead to continue supporting the race as a traditional ruler. A devout Christian and proud son of the Debakwe culture, he embodies the union of faith and tradition that has long shaped the Bokwaongo community.

Bi Ibrahim’s win now stands as more than a sporting success. It is a powerful statement of belief, cultural support, and leadership — a moment where prophecy, preparation, and gratitude met at the summit and returned home victorious.