Online Reporter
Fairness Moyana in Hwange
HWANGE Colliery Company Limited (HCCL) Holdings on Friday evening launched the inaugural 2025 Kamandama Memorial Marathon at the Colliery Stadium.
That marked what promises to be an annual event dedicated to honouring the memory of the 427 miners who perished in the Kamandama Mine Disaster of 6 June, 1972.
The launch, held under the theme “Wankie Spirit, Wankie Pride — Every Step a Tribute, Every Finish a New Beginning,” was attended by senior colliery officials, traditional leaders, corporate partners and members of the community — all united in celebrating the enduring legacy of the fallen miners and the resilient spirit of Hwange.
The marathon itself will take place on 30 November 2025, drawing participants from across the country and beyond. The event will feature a full marathon (42,2km), half marathon (21,1km), 10km and 5km fun runs, alongside a range of family-oriented activities and entertainment designed to foster community togetherness.
In his welcome remarks, HCCL Holdings chief executive officer Mr William Gambiza, described the marathon as more than just a race, but a living tribute to the courage, sacrifice and unity that defines Hwange’s identity.
“Today, we gather not only to launch a race, but to mark the beginning of a yearly tradition of remembrance, unity and resilience. The Kamandama Memorial Marathon will stand as a living tribute to the 427 brave souls who perished in the Kamandama Mine Disaster, fathers, brothers and sons who gave their lives in service to our nation’s progress,” said Mr Gambiza.
He emphasised that the initiative aligns with HCCL’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles and supports Sustainable Development Goal No. 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting fitness, wellness and community cohesion.
Mr Gambiza also took the opportunity to appreciate partners and stakeholders, including the entertainment and sports revival committee led by Nairos Deredzai, a medical practitioner tasked with reviving sporting excellence and restoring vibrancy within Hwange’s social landscape.
Quoting from 3 John 1:2, he reminded attendees that health and well-being are integral to human prosperity, adding: “Sporting activities are a tonic for maintaining healthy and sound bodies for prolonged and satisfying lives.”
Guest of Honour was National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (Naaz) vice-president, Siphathisiwe Machaya, applauded HCCL for initiating a programme that merges sport with heritage preservation.
“This event is more than a race — it is a journey of remembrance, resilience, and renewal. Though the 427 miners’ lives were cut short, their courage gave rise to something that can never be extinguished — the Wankie Spirit: a spirit of unity, endurance and hope,” she said.
Machaya commended the organisers for creating an event that embodies perseverance and collective progress, urging the youth to draw inspiration from the Kamandama legacy to pursue excellence in sport and in life.
“Each finish line crossed will stand as a beacon of hope, that from remembrance comes renewal, and from legacy comes lasting pride.”
Delivering the closing remarks, Chief Wange hailed the event as a historic milestone for Hwange and a testament to HCCL’s commitment to its people.
“May the spirit of those we honour today continue to inspire us to build a stronger, more compassionate Hwange. Thank you HCCL Holdings for your vision, generosity, and continued partnership with the people of Hwange,” said the traditional leader.
The 2025 Kamandama Memorial Marathon aims to become an annual fixture on Zimbabwe’s sporting calendar — a celebration of life, endurance and unity. It is expected to attract athletes from across the country and the region, while also boosting local tourism and economic activity.
