The esplanade of the Molyko stadium was transformed to a mini trade fair.

The mountain race is not only about the race proper but also about activities which take place around the event. Like every year, Buea vibrated at the pulse of the race on February 26^th and 27^th.  One the eve of the competition on Friday was the launching characterised by speeches, match past of the various delegations and cultural activities.

The next day the esplanade of the Molyko stadium that played host to the departure of the race was as busy as a beehive with anxious crowd streaming in floods prompting a heavy traffic jam around the area and businesses rivalling for attention as they showcased their products and services. Two giant screens were placed at the ceremonial ground broadcasting live picture on the race.

There were two giant trucks dressed as a person carrying Brazilian styled carnivals along the major alleys of the South West Regional Capital while the esplanade itself, MTN a partner sponsor to Guinness in the event mounted a podium and dished out live musical performances with renowned artistes like Ben Decca and Sergeo Polo. There were also traditional dance groups mostly from the North West and South West as well as the choir of the Buea University who thrilled the public with the angelic singing of the national anthem and the race anthem chanted for the very first time.

The race also featured demonstrations in rollers skating, nanbudo and the game of badminton. Another point of attraction was the use of drones by certain media houses for the aerial coverage of the race which marvelled the people of Buea, some of whom were witnessing it for the first time. Another high point was the initiation of the Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Bidoung Mkpatt as a traditional ruler of the Bakweri clan as he came out clad as a traditional ruler. He was offered the necessary accessories such as a throne carved out from wood and a broom to wield as staff.

Outside the ceremonial ground, drinking spots were full of the followers of Bacchus who tried to quench the insatiable thirst for alcohol and the merry making went on until late into the night. During the race, businesses came to a standstill as people thronged the street sides to cheer the runners. Some offered water while others just shouted excitedly and clapped as the athletes ran past.

In a rare show of solidarity, one of the runners had to carry the other in the relay race as he was no longer able to run. Health official also took advantage of the race to conduct free screening for HIV and carry out sensitisation. One company offered special cash prizes to the winners in the veteran category of the race as well as to the oldest athlete aged 77. Another put up two motorcycles and a tricycle for contest by raffle draw.