Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Online Reporter
Victoria Falls-based environmentalist Mr Nqobile Mkwananzi has completed a solo fundraising walk covering over 700 kilometres from Beitbridge to the resort city, aiming to raise awareness about natural resource conservation.
Now in its sixth edition, the annual walkathon previously involved a 472km route from Matopo National Park in Matabeleland South to Victoria Falls, focusing on combating littering. Held every September under the theme “Miles for Conservation Fundraising Walk,” the event coincides with National Clean Up Month, World Clean Up Day, and International Rhino Day.
Mkwananzi, affectionately known as the “Rhino Man,” is a teacher by profession who has dedicated himself to social entrepreneurship through this voluntary initiative. Operating under the banner More Knowledge With Action (MKWA), the program educates learners on the importance of protecting both flora and fauna.
The inspiration for the walkathon came after Mkwananzi encountered a dead rhino near his rural home close to Matopo National Park. He explained that the walk raises funds for school programs such as debates, public speaking, poster making, and quizzes to empower young learners on conservation.
Arriving in Victoria Falls yesterday after a month-long journey, Mkwananzi shared his vision:
“This is a way of raising awareness among learners, resonating with my mantra of ‘catching them young’ as they are the future. They must be empowered to conserve natural resources, making it easier to engage them in climate action. When resources allow, we also take learners on weekend bush camps to immerse them in nature and help them appreciate its value and beauty.”
Schools involved in the program across the Matabeleland region include Bahs, Induna, Mzilikazi, Kings Primary, Mkhosana Adventist, Mosi oa Tunya High, and Baobab Primary Schools.
Following his recent attendance at COP15 in Victoria Falls, Mkwananzi has expanded his focus to include raising awareness about wetlands.
“Wetlands are the ‘lungs of the earth,’ providing and purifying water and supporting biodiversity. It is crucial to keep the land between wetlands clean to prevent contamination from solid and liquid waste,” he explained.
Since the walk follows major highways—vital economic arteries bringing goods and tourists—Mkwananzi also uses the opportunity to engage travelers, who often contribute to highway littering. “I conscientise them not to throw litter from moving vehicles and to keep our highway servitudes clean,” he said.
Midway through his journey, after covering 356km, Mkwananzi paused to attend the Zimbabwe Climate Change Sustainability Week and Green Business Expo at ZITF.
Follow Mthabisi Tshuma on X: @mthabisi_mthire
