Beitbridge runs for cleanliness

THE stage is set for one of Beitbridge’s most anticipated community events, the Mayor’s Anti-Litter Half Marathon, which will take place this Saturday morning. The event is more than just a race. It is a strong call to action for residents, businesses, and visitors to take pride in their town and keep it clean. Hundreds of athletes are expected to take part, turning the stretch between Lutumba Growth Point and the town’s central business district into a lively and purposeful scene.

Organisers say the 21km route will be buzzing with energy as runners and walkers from across the country and possibly beyond Zimbabwe’s borders come together under the theme “Beitbridge My Home My Smart City.” The message is simple but important: a clean town is everyone’s responsibility.

Now in its 11th year, the Beitbridge Mayor’s Anti-Litter Marathon has grown steadily into a key fixture on the local calendar. What started as a small initiative has developed into a major event that not only promotes fitness but also encourages civic responsibility. The marathon was initiated by Beitbridge Town Clerk, Mr Loud Ramakgapola, and has continued to attract growing support from professional athletes and community members alike.

Race spokesperson Raniel Ndou said preparations are well on course, with organisers confident of delivering a successful event despite challenges with funding.

“We in the right track. We have managed to mobilise key items to be in place, these include t-shirts and medals. Registration is going on very well and we should be able to surpass the 500 mark,” Ndou said.

His optimism reflects the strong response already seen. While registrations had reached around 200 athletes at the time of speaking, officials believe numbers will rise sharply as the race day approaches.

“We anticipate that competition should be stiff because we have received interest from athletes outside Zimbabwe and if they happen to come it will up the bar. Our registrations so far stand at 200 athletes we should or triple this figure by Friday where a number of athletes comes through to register.”

Indeed, the possibility of international participants has added excitement to the event. Their presence would not only raise the level of competition but also highlight Beitbridge as a town capable of hosting events of regional interest.

Despite the enthusiasm, organisers face a familiar challenge — the lack of a major sponsor. However, this has not dampened spirits. Instead, the event continues to rely on the goodwill of local businesses and stakeholders who have stepped in to provide support.

“We are still pushing on the prizes for athletes and we thank the business community of Beitbridge for supporting this vision. We don’t have an outright sponsor so far, but our traditional friends, the local companies continue to support the event,” said Ndou.

The event offers something for everyone. Participants can choose between a 21km half marathon, a 12km race, and a 5km power walk. This range ensures that people of different fitness levels can be part of the initiative. More importantly, the inclusiveness of the event sends a strong message that fighting litter is not limited to athletes — it is a duty shared by all.

Ndou stressed the importance of involving diverse groups within the community, especially young people, women and those living with disabilities.

“I haven’t verified current stats but as per last year these groups were so much involved, including women and those living with disability. Registration is still open those who wish to register may they come and do so by this Friday.”

Participants can register at council offices in both the town centre and high-density suburbs, making it easier for everyone to take part.

The marathon is also closely linked to broader community efforts to improve cleanliness. On the day before the race, Beitbridge residents will gather for a clean-up campaign along the highway and within the town. This activity aligns with the National Clean-Up Day, which is observed on the first Friday of every month. Together, these efforts aim to create a visible and lasting impact.

At the heart of the event is the theme, which Ndou says goes beyond branding.

“The theme, “Beitbridge My Home My Smart City,” isn’t just branding. It’s a challenge. A smart city, isn’t built only with tar and towers, it is built when residents decide the road that feeds them shouldn’t be the one they litter.”

This message highlights a deeper issue facing the town. Beitbridge, as Zimbabwe’s busiest border post and a key gateway to South Africa, experiences high levels of traffic and human activity. This brings economic opportunities but also places pressure on the town’s infrastructure, particularly waste management.

According to local figures, residents, businesses and travellers produce around 1,000 tonnes of solid waste each month. However, the local authority is only able to collect about 700 tonnes. The remaining waste often ends up littering the streets, clogging drainage systems and creating health risks.

The consequences are visible. Piles of rubbish, blocked drains and polluted surroundings not only affect the appearance of the town but also threaten public health and tourism. For a town that serves as a major entry point into the country, maintaining cleanliness is critical.

Ndou said the marathon is meant to draw attention to these challenges and encourage collective action.

He said that the event brings together stakeholders from across the town, including residents, businesses and officials, to tackle the problem in a unified way.

To ensure fair competition, the race will feature four categories: juniors (16 to 20 years), seniors (21 to 39 years), veterans (40 to 49 years), and masters (50 years and above). This structure ensures that participants compete within their age groups while still enjoying the spirit of the overall event.

As race day approaches, excitement continues to build. For many participants, the marathon is not just about winning but about contributing to a cause. Running through the streets of Beitbridge becomes a way of showing commitment to a cleaner environment.

In a town where litter has become a growing concern, events like this offer hope. They remind residents that change is possible when people come together with a shared purpose.

The Beitbridge Mayor’s Anti-Litter Half Marathon is therefore more than just a sporting event. It is a community movement — one that calls on every individual to take responsibility for their surroundings. By combining sport, awareness and action, the organisers hope to inspire lasting change.