Tendai Gukutikwa
Health Reporter
MANICALAND residents are expected to turn out in large numbers tomorrow (Saturday) for the annual Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk, with proceeds from the event set to support cancer patients receiving care through Island Hospice and Healthcare.
The walk, which has become one of Zimbabwe’s flagship cancer awareness initiatives, will be held at the Manicaland Motoring Club, where participants will compete in five-kilometre and 10-kilometre categories while championing the fight against cancer.
Organised as part of Zimpapers’ corporate social responsibility programme, the event seeks to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection and treatment, while mobilising resources to assist patients and families affected by the disease.
Speaking ahead of the event, The Manica Post Editor, Mr Cletus Mushanawani, said preparations are at an advanced stage, with encouraging registration numbers already recorded from individuals, community groups and corporates.
He said the Cancer Power Walk has evolved into more than a fitness event, becoming a symbol of hope and solidarity for those affected by cancer.
“The Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk is more than just a walk. It is a powerful statement of solidarity with cancer patients, survivors and families affected by the disease. We urge the people of Manicaland to come out in their numbers this Saturday and support this worthy cause,” said Mr Mushanawani.
He said cancer remains a challenge that touches almost every family and community, making awareness and early detection critical weapons in the fight against the disease.
“Cancer affects all of us either directly or indirectly. By participating in the walk, we raise awareness on the importance of early screening, healthy living and regular medical check-ups, which are critical in the fight against cancer,” he said.
Mr Mushanawani said every participant will be contributing to a larger cause aimed at improving lives and supporting vulnerable patients.
“Every step taken during the Cancer Power Walk represents hope for those battling cancer and a commitment to building healthier communities. We encourage corporates, schools, churches, community groups and individuals to join hands in making this year’s event a success.”
“Together, we can help spread lifesaving messages, support cancer awareness initiatives and show that no one fights cancer alone,” he said.
Launched in 2015, the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk has grown into a nationwide campaign, with simultaneous activities held at various Zimpapers branches across the country.
Through its partnership with Island Hospice and Healthcare, the initiative also raises resources to support vulnerable cancer patients and strengthen access to care and counselling services.
Island Hospice and Healthcare Manicaland branch coordinator, Mrs Alice Dube, said the event offers communities an opportunity to directly contribute to cancer support programmes, while reinforcing the importance of awareness and early diagnosis.
“The walk provides an opportunity for communities to support cancer patients while reinforcing the message that early detection, access to care and community support remain critical in the fight against cancer,” she said.
Mrs Dube urged the public to view cancer awareness as a year-round responsibility rather than an activity associated only with commemorative events.
“Cancer awareness should go beyond public events and include sustained efforts to educate communities about the disease, its warning signs and the importance of seeking medical attention early,” she said.
She revealed that Island Hospice and Healthcare recently partnered the Ministry of Health and Child Care in conducting breast cancer awareness campaigns targeting schools, churches, workplaces and community organisations.
The programmes focused on educating people about cancer risk factors, prevention, early warning signs and the importance of routine screening, while also addressing myths and misconceptions that often discourage people from seeking medical attention.
“We engaged schools, churches, workplaces and community groups, helping people understand what cancer is, its risk factors, prevention methods and the importance of early detection. Knowledge remains one of the most powerful tools in reducing the burden of cancer,” she said.
Beyond the physical effects of the disease, Mrs Dube said cancer often brings significant emotional and psychological challenges.
“The greatest fear is often the fear of the unknown. That fear can begin at testing, continue at diagnosis and persist throughout treatment. People worry about surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, treatment costs and how their families or communities will react,” she said.
She emphasised that cancer patients require holistic support that addresses their physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs.
“Cancer affects the whole person. Patients can experience pain, social isolation, anxiety and loss of confidence. They need more than medication. They need understanding, compassion and people willing to walk with them throughout their journey,” said Mrs Dube.
She urged families and communities to create supportive environments for cancer patients and encouraged people to undergo regular health screenings and seek medical attention whenever they notice unusual changes in their bodies.
Manicaland rallies for annual Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk
