In order to give a special touch to celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the unitary State in Cameroon, the Ministry of Defence on Saturday May 19 organised a cross country race for soldiers along some of the major streets of the nation's capital-Yaounde. The 8-kilometre race brought together some 180 soldiers from the different military regions of the country with three teams from every region commensurate to the U-35, plus 35 and feminine categories. The race kicked-off at the 'Messe des officiers' in Olezoa and ended at the courtyard of the Headquarters Brigade passing through Mvolye, Ngoa-ekelle, the national assembly, municipal lake and national gendarmerie headquarters in Yaounde.

Trophies and cash prizes were awarded to winners in each category by the minister delegate to the Presidency, in charge of Defence, Alain Mebe Ngo'o, during the air show at the air force 101 base in Yaounde. There were special encouragement prizes to the oldest athletes in both the male and female categories. The race was graced by traditional dance groups, military and civilian artistes to depict the cultural diversity of Cameroon and portray the army as the pivot of national unity.

The race which was in its maiden edition, was organised to foster the spirit of good camaraderie among soldiers, stimulate greater collaboration and boost the morale of the defence forces in the discharge of their missions.