Five Remarkable African Guinness World Record Holders
Originally known as the Guinness Book of Records, this British reference book was first published in 1955. Initially conceived as a collection of facts to settle arguments in pubs, it soon evolved into a more comprehensive documentation of the world’s most incredible records.
Today, Guinness World Records is the best globally, featuring a wide collection of records. These records can be found in the annual book and also on TV shows, social media, and live events. Here are five remarkable African Guinness record holders.
Fela Kuti – Highest number of studio recordings
Fela Kuti, a Nigerian musician and political activist, was a pioneer of the Afrobeat movement, blending jazz, funk, and African rhythms. He used music to address socio-political issues and advocate for the oppressed. Kuti released 46 studio albums, setting the Guinness World Record for most studio albums. His solo career spanned 23 years.
Kimani Ng’ang’a Maruge – The oldest person to enrol in a primary school
Kimani Ng’ang’a Maruge, a Kenyan, enrolled in primary school in 2004 at the age of 84, holding the Guinness World Record for the oldest person ever to do so. Maruge was among the top five students in his class after he completed his first end-of-term exams in math, English, and Kiswahili with excellent grades.
Caster Semenya – World record for the women’s 800-meter race
At the 2009 Berlin World Championships, Caster Semenya, a South African athlete, won her first World Championship gold medal in the women’s 800m race, setting a new world record in the process with a time of 1:58.66
Tuedon Morgan – Fastest woman to run a half-marathon on every continent
In 2015, Nigerian athlete Tuedon Morgan became the fastest woman to run a half-marathon on every continent and the North Pole, setting a Guinness World Record. In a mere 62 days, 12 hours, 58 minutes, and 49 seconds, she finished the challenge. Morgan ran half-marathons in eight different countries on six different continents, beginning in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada, and ending in Paris, France, in just two months, setting an incredible record. Morgan faced extreme weather and climate challenges in Antarctica and the North Pole; regardless, she persisted and succeeded in her endeavour.
Wayde Van Niekerk – World record for the fastest 400-meter race
During the 2016 Rio Olympics, South African sprinter Wayde Van Niekerk broke the world record in the men’s 400 metres. With a time of 43.03 seconds, he qualified for the Guinness World Records and won an Olympic gold medal. Van Niekerk ran in lane 8, which is usually at a disadvantage because of the track’s curve, and managed an unfavourable lane draw, which contributed to his incredible performance.
These are just a few examples of the many amazing Africans who have made their mark on the world stage through their Guinness World Records achievements. They are evidence that Africa births talented and determined individuals.
