Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke
Herald Correspondent
COMMANDER Air Force of Zimbabwe, Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede, has hailed the overwhelming turnout at the 2026 Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe Charity Half Marathon and Fun Day, saying the event demonstrated Zimbabweans’ growing commitment to supporting vulnerable communities while complementing the Government’s national development agenda.
The annual marathon, which was held at Falcon Golf Course last Friday, is the flagship fundraising initiative of the Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe Charity Fund, with proceeds supporting programmes aimed at improving the welfare of underprivileged members of society.
Addressing hundreds of participants, Air Marshal Nzvede said he had not anticipated such a large turnout after learning that athletes had begun arriving at the venue as early as 5am.
“The Charity Half Marathon and Fun Day is part of the initiatives by the Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe Charity Fund to raise funds to support charity programmes and projects,” he said.
“I wish to commend the Board of the Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe Charity Fund, led by Mr Luckson Zembe, for spearheading these interventions that transform the lives of the underprivileged.”
He said the Charity Fund’s work complemented the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which is driving Zimbabwe towards the attainment of Vision 2030.
“These efforts by the Charity Fund complement the National Development Strategy being implemented by the Government. Attainment of Vision 2030 will require all of us to put our shoulders to the wheel to improve the quality of life of all citizens,” said Air Marshal Nzvede.
He said the marathon, the first fundraising activity on the Charity Fund’s annual calendar, had successfully achieved its objectives through participation fees and support from the corporate sector.
“In addition to the funds raised from participation fees, I wish to recognise individuals and companies that donated towards the successful hosting of this event,” he said.
Air Marshal Nzvede acknowledged the contributions of the National Oil Company of Zimbabwe (NOIC), NetOne, FBC Bank, Tottenham Financial Services, Fidelity Life Assurance, Rusununguko Holdings, Safeguard Security, National Foods, GanZim and Platinum Investments for supporting the event.
He also commended participants for the discipline and commitment they demonstrated, urging them to carry the same values into their daily lives.
“I wish to commend all the participants for supporting the fundraising effort and for the discipline they demonstrated by waking up early to participate in the 2026 edition of the marathon. It is my hope that we will take this discipline and use it to shape our lives and those around us,” he said.
Meanwhile, Air Marshal Nzvede announced that Falcon Golf Course had officially become the property of the Air Force of Zimbabwe and would now be open to members of the public for golf and other sporting activities.
“I am pleased to inform you all that this venue, Falcon Golf Course, is now the property of the Air Force of Zimbabwe.
“I therefore extend an invitation to you all to feel free to come here and play golf and engage in other sporting activities,” he said.
The Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe Charity Fund was established to mobilise resources for charitable initiatives targeting disadvantaged communities.
Over the years, the fund has supported a range of social welfare programmes, with the annual half marathon serving as its principal fundraising event while also promoting healthy lifestyles and stronger partnerships between the Air Force, the corporate sector and the public.
