Running With Purpose: Afowiri Fondzenyuy Takes the Autism Advocacy Mission to Kilimanjaro

Afowiri “Kitz” Fondzenyuy is preparing for one of the most demanding endurance challenges in the world — the Kilimanjaro Summit Marathon. But for the founder of the Amom Foundation, this run is not about medals or milestones. It is about children whose voices are often unheard.

The Kilimanjaro Marathon, held at nearly 19,341 feet above sea level, represents the final continent in Afowiri’s seven-continent marathon journey. Each race has been run in Toghu, Cameroon’s traditional attire, as a symbol of identity, pride, and responsibility to community.

Through the Amom Foundation, Afowiri has transformed global running into a vehicle for social impact. His previous marathon campaigns have supported education access, rural infrastructure, and inclusive learning initiatives across Cameroon. Notably, proceeds from his Guinness World Record run at the Tokyo Marathon helped fund the construction of two community bridges in Ngondzen — reconnecting children to schools and families to economic opportunities.

Today, the Foundation’s focus is expanding to a critical and often overlooked need: neurodiversity support. Afowiri is leading efforts to establish Cameroon’s first Center for Neurodiversity, alongside structured training programs for teachers and parents supporting children on the autism spectrum.

“These children communicate differently, not wrongly,” Afowiri says. “We must create spaces where they are understood, supported, and celebrated.”

The Kilimanjaro Marathon campaign is a call to action — inviting partners, donors, and advocates to help turn this vision into reality. Every step Afowiri takes toward the summit represents a step closer to inclusive education, dignity, and opportunity for neurodiverse children.

Join us. Support the mission. Help build Cameroon’s first Center for Neurodiversity.