Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, [email protected]
THE Beitbridge Mayor’s Half Marathon has come a long way from its early days as a small municipal race, and on Saturday the town once again came alive as runners, cyclists and spectators gathered for its 11th edition. There was a real sense that this is no longer just a local event, but something bigger — something that now draws people from across Zimbabwe and beyond. Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, captured that feeling as he praised the growth of the race and the role it is beginning to play in shaping the community.
Speaking at the event, Nguluvhe reflected on how the marathon has steadily grown over the years into a respected regional competition attracting elite athletes, social runners and corporate support.
“This half marathon is far more than a sporting event,” said the Minister.
The race, officially known as the Mayor’s Anti-Litter Marathon, was started by Beitbridge Town Clerk Mr Loud Ramakgapola. What began as a simple idea has turned into a powerful community movement. Each year it gets bigger, with more people taking part and more awareness being created around keeping the town clean and safe — not just in Beitbridge itself, but along the busy highways that connect it to major cities.
This year’s turnout said it all. More than 400 athletes lined up to take part, bringing energy and excitement to the border town. In the main 21.1km race, Blanket Mine Athletics Club runner Mthokozisi Mhlanga put in a strong performance to win the open men’s category, while Nkosiyazi Sibanda took top honours in the veterans’ section.
In the women’s open 21.1km race, Caroline Mhandu caused a major upset, beating more experienced runners to take first place. Ennie Chirisa came in second, followed by Thobile Ncube in third. Regular contenders Ntombizodwa Chuma and Onita Dube finished in fourth and fifth place respectively, showing once again their consistency in the competition.
There was also a strong showing in the masters’ category, where Nicholas Mugamiri, Josphat Mugove and Daniel Marisa took the top three spots. Stella Dokotela stood out as the only master woman to complete the race, a quiet but impressive achievement on a demanding course.
The marathon was not limited to the half marathon distance. The programme also included a 10km race and a 5km power walk, opening the event to a wider group of participants. In the 10km men’s race, Andrew Ndlovu finished ahead of Brave Moyo and Tanaka Chikoore. In the women’s category, Bonakele Nkomo claimed victory, followed by Naume Zimbizi and Beloved Shumba.
Cyclists were also part of the action, adding another dimension to the event. Lenias Mcelelwa, Edfill Ndlovu and Praise Muleya finished in the top three in the men’s 21.1km cycling race, while Prettygirl Ndlovu and Jo-Ann Chizarura completed the distance in the women’s category.
Organisers said the race has continued to grow steadily since it was first introduced in 2015. What started as a small local initiative has now become a fixture on the sporting calendar, bringing people together while promoting a shared sense of responsibility for the environment.
In his address, Minister Nguluvhe made it clear that the marathon is about more than competition. He described it as a tool for encouraging positive behaviour, supporting service delivery and driving social and economic change. “We are not merely running for medals; we are running for environmental dignity. Every footprint left on these streets today is a declaration that we say NO to litter and YES to a clean, green and sustainable Beitbridge,” emphasised Nguluvhe.
He pointed out that Beitbridge, as the busiest inland port in Sub-Saharan Africa, faces serious challenges when it comes to waste management because of the constant movement of people. In that context, the marathon plays an important role by raising awareness and encouraging residents and visitors alike to take care of their environment. He commended the local authority for using the event to promote the “Running Against Litter” campaign and to push for better environmental practices.
Nguluvhe also used the occasion to speak about the growing problem of drug and substance abuse among young people. He warned that this is affecting their health and limiting their potential.
“This marathon carries a message that goes beyond sport. It is a statement that our youth belong on the sports field, in the classroom, in business and in productive community activities — not in the grip of drugs and substance abuse,” said Nguluvhe.
He called on parents, teachers, churches, traditional leaders and law enforcement agencies to work together to protect young people and guide them towards positive activities.
The Minister said Matabeleland South has a lot of untapped potential, especially among its young people, who he described as talented and resilient. He noted that events like the marathon give upcoming athletes a chance to showcase their abilities and possibly build careers in sport at national and international level.
Looking at the bigger picture, Nguluvhe said the event is also helping to position Beitbridge as more than just a border town. It is a place with growing economic importance and potential for investment.
“This powerful intersection of sport, wellness and tourism demonstrates that Beitbridge is more than a border town — it is an important economic hub with enormous potential for growth and investment,” said Nguluvhe.
As the event came to an end and the last runners crossed the finish line, the message of the day remained clear. The race may be over, but the responsibility continues.
“The fight against litter and environmental degradation must not end today. A clean environment is a reflection of a responsible, disciplined and united community.”
Nguluvhe also commended local authorities for embracing devolution and working together under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, saying initiatives like this show how local ideas can drive real progress when they are fully supported.
