Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
A DECADE ago, the Beitbridge Municipality took a bold step, not just to encourage fitness but to tackle a persistent problem choking the town’s image: litter.
Now, the Mayor’s Anti-Litter Half Marathon, a unique blend of sport and civic duty, is preparing to celebrate its 10th anniversary in a manner befitting its environmental mission and community impact.
Set for June 21, this year’s edition promises more than just medals and finish lines. It marks 10 years of running against rubbish, 10 years of community mobilisation, and 10 years of sending a powerful message, that a clean environment is a collective responsibility.
“We want to remind all the athletes that this race is about running against litter,” said Beitbridge Town Clerk, Loud Ramakgapola, the driving force behind the initiative. “At the same time, we encourage residents to clean their environment and keep our Beitbridge town clean all the time.”
In a symbolic shift, this year’s race will change course, from the traditional Beitbridge Bulawayo route to the Beitbridge-Masvingo highway. It’s not just a geographical detour, but a gesture to involve more communities along the southern corridor and highlight how the anti-litter message transcends municipal borders.
The event includes the flagship 21,1km half marathon, alongside 10km and 5km walks, and inclusive Paralympic events ensuring athletes of all abilities have a chance to contribute to the cause.
“We are planning a number of activities to mark the 10th anniversary,” Ramakgapola said. “The first race was held in 2016 and it appears we will continue for more years to come.”
The stakes are high. Beitbridge’s waste management figures paint a worrying picture: the town generates over 1 000 tonnes of solid waste monthly, yet only manages to collect around 700 tonnes.
The shortfall manifests in unsightly litter, blocked drains and a threat to both health and tourism in a town that serves as the country’s busiest border post and gateway to South Africa.
But Beitbridge is fighting back, and the marathon has become a key part of that arsenal.
“This race is more than a sport,” said a long-time participant from Dulivhadzimu. “It’s a campaign. It reminds us that every plastic bottle we drop on the road is another step backward for our town.”
Organisers expect around 500 athletes to take part, and registration is already open. At just $10 per entrant, with free registration for school children and seniors over 65, the event is designed to be accessible. Those interested can sign up at the Beitbridge Municipality’s main offices or at the housing offices in Dulivhadzimu. More registration points are expected to be announced soon.
Crucially, people with disabilities and cyclists are being actively encouraged to take part, reflecting the organisers’ commitment to inclusivity and broad participation.
Support from businesses and community groups has also been strong. Donations in cash or kind, especially in the form of race branded t-shirts, are being sought to help dress athletes and raise the visual profile of the anti-litter campaign.
To cap off the event, organisers are planning a celebratory after-party braai at KCD Square, a site named in honour of Vice President Kembo Mohadi, covering the shops in the bustling Bata area.
What began as a humble initiative now stands as one of the country’s most enduring civic motivated athletic events.
It blends health, pride and environmental consciousness into one unique tradition.
And with a decade behind it, the Mayor’s Anti-Litter Marathon isn’t slowing down.
“This is our 10th in a row,” Ramakgapola emphasised, “and we are just getting started.”
