Guinness World Record Holder to Run Paris Marathon in 27lb Traditional African Attire

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Jan. 18, 2026 - PRLog -- PARIS, FRANCE — On April 12, 2026, Kizito Afowiri—the historic first Cameroonian male to complete all six Abbott World Marathon Majors—will take to the streets of the Paris Marathon with a mission that outweighs the finish line.

Dressed in his signature 20lb (12kg) traditional Toghu attire, the Guinness World Record holder is launching an ambitious campaign to raise $50,000 for the Amom Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of neurodiverse children in Cameroon.

The Mission: Beyond the Medal

While most elite runners look for the lightest gear, Afowiri embraces the physical strain of his heavy, hand-embroidered robes as a metaphor for the challenges faced by children with special needs. Having recently completed a historic ice marathon in Antarctica, Afowiri is now turning his focus to Paris to fund a long-held vision: the Amom Autism Center in Yaoundé.

"I've run for records and personal milestones—but running for children who are often unseen gives every mile a deeper meaning," says Kizito Afowiri. "In many parts of Africa, neurodiversity is misunderstood or stigmatized. If my pain on the road can create access, dignity, and professional intervention for these kids, then every step is worth it."

A Legacy of Impact
Founded in 2006, the Amom Foundation has grown from a simple textbook drive into an international force for inclusive education. Its impact includes:

• 18,000+ children reached with educational materials and support.
• 70+ schools supported through teacher training and infrastructure.
• Cameroon's First Autism Center: The proceeds from the Paris Marathon will directly fund the construction and staffing of this pilot resource center.

Culture in Motion

Known globally as the "Toghu Marathoner," Afowiri's impact extends to the highest levels of cultural diplomacy. In 2025, his record-breaking attire was officially inducted into the National Museum of Cameroon as a symbol of national pride. By running in Paris, he continues to prove that African heritage and elite athletic performance can fuel global social change.
Call to Action
The public is invited to support the "Toghu Races for Change" initiative:

1. Donate: Support the $50,000 goal at amomfoundation.org.
2. Join Team Amom: Runners in the Paris Marathon can register as charity participants to help amplify the cause.

About Kizito Afowiri
Kizito Afowiri is a Guinness World Record holder, a Certified RRCA Running Coach, and a Six-Star Finisher of the World Marathon Majors. He has raised over $180,000 for charitable causes across Africa, bridging his athletic excellence with deep-rooted philanthropy.