Online Reporter
Fatima Bulla, Harare Bureau
Nedbank, FBC Holdings, and the City of Mutare have reaffirmed their support for the Zimpapers Cancer Powerwalk, pledging assistance for the 2025 edition.
The commitment was highlighted at the official handover of proceeds from the 2024 event to Island Hospice and Healthcare recently.
A total of US$27 679 and ZWL43 043 was raised last year and officially handed over to Island Hospice, which provides essential palliative and bereavement care services, including support for cancer patients.
The funds raised reflect the community’s dedication to alleviating the struggles faced by those affected by cancer.
Senior brand and marketing manager at Nedbank Zimbabwe Limited, Mr Joel Gombera, reiterated their commitment to supporting vulnerable community members.
“The bank’s participation as platinum sponsors of the Zimpapers Cancer Powerwalk took due consideration of the objective of the walk, which over the past nine years has seen Zimpapers consistently deliver all proceeds to Island Hospice, who provide palliative to cancer patients as we carry out cancer awareness campaigns” he said.
This commitment underlines the importance of raising awareness and providing necessary care for cancer patients.
FBC Holdings’ head of group marketing, Mr Roy Nyakunuwa, also spoke passionately about their involvement.
“Our presence here today reflects our strong commitment to supporting the Zimpapers Group and the wider community in advancing this crucial societal cause. FBC Group is actively involved in promoting various initiatives within the health sector. We, however, consider the Zimpapers Cancer Powerwalk to be a key initiative that we have proudly supported over the years,” he said.
He noted that their participation in the Cancer Powerwalk has significantly contributed to alleviating challenges faced by individuals and healthcare institutions in the fight against cancer.
The City of Mutare’s commitment was echoed by Mr Charles Sadondo, principal corporate communications and marketing officer.
“We believe that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our hospitals have the resources they need to provide exceptional care,” he said.
Ambassador Getrude Takawira, board chair of Island Hospice and Healthcare, expressed gratitude for the initiative.
“We are grateful for this great gesture. As Island Hospice and Healthcare, we will always be grateful to those helping us in combating cancer,” she said.
Mr Gorden Mwerenga, representing Zimpapers Group acting chief executive Mr William Chikoto, said: “As Zimpapers, we transitioned through this process from having a CSR (corporate social responsibility) board committee to a fully-fledged sustainability committee.”
The Zimpapers Cancer Powerwalk remains a vital initiative, fostering collaboration between corporate sponsors and healthcare providers to support cancer patients and raise awareness.
