Cameroon Gallops to Regional Dominance at Fombina Derby

Kamssouloum Abba Kabir, Member of Parliament for Logone and Chari Division in the Far North Region and 1st Quaestor of the Cameroon National Assembly, has hailed Cameroon’s resounding triumph at the prestigious Fombina Derby International Horse Racing Competition, describing it a

Kamssouloum Abba Kabir, Member of Parliament for Logone and Chari Division in the Far North Region and 1st Quaestor of the Cameroon National Assembly, has hailed Cameroon’s resounding triumph at the prestigious Fombina Derby International Horse Racing Competition, describing it as a defining moment for the nation’s sporting prestige and cultural diplomacy.

Speaking at a press conference convened at the Hôtel des Députés in Yaoundé in his capacity as President of the Cameroon Federation of Equestrian Sports, Hon. Kamssouloum outlined the strategic groundwork that propelled the national delegation to an outstanding performance in Yola, Adamawa State, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He stressed that the competition was not merely a sporting engagement, but a patriotic mission that showcased Cameroon’s rising influence in sub-regional equestrian sports.

Held from January 28 to 31 in Yola, the annual derby brought together elite riders and equestrian teams from across the Lake Chad Basin. Competing against seasoned regional contenders, Cameroon emerged as one of the most decorated delegations, clinching an impressive 15 medals four gold, five silver, and six bronze  a feat that drew admiration from observers and stakeholders alike.

According to Hon. Kamssouloum, the remarkable medal haul was the result of months of rigorous preparation, structured training, and seamless coordination between riders, trainers, and technical staff.

He commended the athletes for their discipline, resilience, and professionalism, noting that their performance reflected both technical excellence and national pride.

Hosted in Yola, the derby is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious horse racing festivals in the region. Beyond the thrill of competition, it celebrates the deep-rooted traditions of horsemanship shared by communities across northern Cameroon and northeastern Nigeria, reinforcing historical ties and cultural solidarity.

Hon. Kamssouloum emphasized that Cameroon’s success at the derby not only strengthens the country’s international sporting reputation but also preserves and promotes a vital aspect of cultural identity in the Far North Region. He highlighted the socio-economic importance of equestrian activities, which remain deeply embedded in the traditions and livelihoods of many communities.

Looking ahead, the federation president called for sustained investment in equestrian infrastructure, expanded youth training programs, and enhanced cross-border sporting exchanges.

He reaffirmed his commitment to broadening opportunities for young riders and fortifying institutional partnerships to consolidate Cameroon’s leadership in the discipline.

Concluding the briefing, Hon. Kamssouloum described the 15-medal triumph as a powerful symbol of national pride, unity, and competitive excellence. He pledged that the Cameroon Federation of Equestrian Sports would continue to champion sporting distinction, cultural diplomacy, and international competitiveness in future editions of the Fombina Derby and beyond.