Sunday Mail Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S fight against cancer receives a major boost this week as Zimpapers hosts the 2026 Cancer Power Walk.
With days to go before Zimbabwe’s biggest corporate-led cancer awareness and fundraising event, Zimpapers has confirmed that all final preparations are complete.
This year’s event will be held on Saturday under the theme “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters”.
The annual walk will simultaneously take place in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru, Chinhoyi and Masvingo, bringing together communities, corporates, health practitioners, cancer survivors, families and supporters in a united stand against cancer.
Participants can walk, run or cycle, with proceeds channelled towards supporting cancer care through Island Hospice and Healthcare, one of Zimbabwe’s leading providers of palliative and end-of-life care services.
Zimpapers Group chief executive officer Mr William Chikoto said all logistical arrangements had been finalised.
He urged Zimbabweans from all walks of life to take part in the walk.
“We are excited that all is now in place for the 2026 Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk,” he said.
“This initiative has continued to grow because Zimbabweans understand that cancer affects families, communities and workplaces.
“Through this event, we are not only raising awareness, but also mobilising resources to support those affected by cancer.
“Cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges facing our society. We, therefore, call upon corporates, organisations and individuals to join us in this important cause. Every participant and every contribution helps make a difference in someone’s life.”
Mr Chikoto thanked the growing number of partners and sponsors supporting the event.
“We are deeply grateful to all our sponsors and partners, whose generosity continues to make this initiative possible,” he said. “Their support demonstrates the power of collaboration in driving positive health outcomes and social impact.”
Organisations backing this year’s event include FBC Holdings Limited; POSB; the National Employment Council (NEC) for the Printing, Packaging and Newspaper Industry; GanZim; Valley Visions; LinkShield; National Blood Service Zimbabwe; Rugare Medical Aid Society; Health Professions Authority Zimbabwe; Lobels Bread; Zimnat; Ecobank; Harare Onco; Karorina’s Wellness Spa; Puma; Forestry Commission; Sir Charles; Zorro; Skyz Metro FM; Beyond Events; and LC Shipping.
In addition to the walk, there will be free health screening and wellness services, giving participants an opportunity to undergo health checks and receive valuable information from medical professionals.
These will include cancer awareness consultations and other basic wellness assessments aimed at encouraging early detection and healthy lifestyles.
Companies are encouraged to register teams and use the event to promote employee wellness while supporting a worthy national cause.
“We encourage corporates to sponsor participants, register staff teams and partner with us in expanding the reach of this initiative,” said Mr Chikoto.
“Fighting cancer is a collective responsibility and together we can save lives through awareness, early detection and improved access to care.”
Participants are urged to sign up and invite family members, friends and colleagues via the online platform: https://cancerwalk.zimpapers.co.zw/paymentplatform/public/
The participation fee is US$15, while children under 12 attend for free.
Island Hospice and Healthcare executive director Dr Ngoni Nyambawaro said the walk had become an important vehicle for raising awareness and mobilising support for cancer patients.
“At Island Hospice and Healthcare, we see first-hand the physical, emotional and financial toll that cancer takes on patients and their families,” he said.
“The Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk is not merely a fundraising event, but a national call for action and solidarity.
“Cancer knows no borders, professions or social status. Let us fill the streets on November 7 and send a vibrant message that Zimbabwe stands united against cancer. Together, we can ensure that no one faces the cancer journey alone.”
