Online Reporter
Trust Khosa and Langalihle Mhiti
The annual Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk has become a source of excitement and hope, engaging stakeholders and creating new memories over the past decade.
This transformative experience demonstrates that a healthy lifestyle and community synergy can make the world a better place.
As we celebrate this milestone today, the 10th edition will take place in style, sharing the essence of a healthy lifestyle across the nation.
Known for attracting large crowds from all corners of Zimbabwe, this year’s event has gained international attention, with participants from abroad joining the festivities and contributing to this noble cause.
A special link, https://cancerwalk.zimpapers.co.zw/paymentplatform/public/, has been provided for those wishing to participate virtually, whether at home or in the diaspora.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, we embraced virtual participation, and now, thanks to technological advancements, Zimpapers ensures that no one is left behind in supporting this important initiative.
We invite donations in any form to benefit cancer victims in Zimbabwe.
To ensure that virtual participants receive the recognition they deserve, we encourage them to share video clips and pictures of their routines.
Locally, tens of thousands will join the 10th anniversary celebration, proudly wearing the iconic pink regalia that has become synonymous with the event. This attire is available at all Zimpapers outlets across the country.
As has become the tradition, the streets of Harare, Bulawayo, Masvingo, Mutare, Gweru and Chinhoyi will come alive with music, laughter and a shared sense of determination as the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk returns for its 10th edition a milestone celebrating a decade of courage, unity and life.
Participants in Harare will meet at Old Hararians Sports Club while walkers in Bulawayo will gather at Chronicle House.
In Masvingo, the venue will be the Civic Centre, and participants in Mutare will converge at Mutare Motoring Club.
Gweru will also host its own edition. The Mashonaland West team will assemble at the scenic Chinhoyi Caves.
This year’s event is taking place under the theme “Step by Step, We Fight Together”.
For 10 years, the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk has united communities, families, health professionals, and survivors in a nationwide effort to raise awareness about cancer and promote healthy living.
What began as a modest yet crucial initiative by Zimbabwe’s largest integrated media group has grown into one of the country’s most recognisable health awareness events.
Enlightening both old and new participants, event coordinator Pauline Matanda assured fitness enthusiasts of a fun-filled event that will remain engraved in many minds for years to come.
“This will be our 10th edition; we are celebrating a decade,” she said proudly. “It has been10 years of walking for hope, 10 years of spreading awareness, and ten years of standing with cancer patients and survivors.”
She emphasised that this year’s event would be bigger and more vibrant than ever before, reflecting how far the cause has come.
“We started with just a few walkers in Harare, but now the walk has spread across the country,” she noted. “That shows how deeply this message has touched people’s hearts.”
The walk will take place simultaneously in six major centres for one purpose.
“People will gather at 05:30 hours the venues, and the walk will start at 06:00 hours,” Matanda said. “We will start the walk at each venue, follow different routes, and return to the same venue. It’s a symbolic journey; it reminds us that every fight against cancer starts and ends with community.”
The early start, she explained, allows participants to enjoy the cool morning air while making the most of the day’s activities. “We want people to enjoy the full experience — from the walk itself to the music, fitness activities and health services we’re offering,” she added.
What makes the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk unique is that it goes beyond physical exercise. It is a festival of life and health, blending fitness, education, and entertainment.
“There will be Zumba sessions and various health desks, including cancer desks for screening and information,” Matanda said. “We’re making it a day of wellness, learning, and fun.”
She also noted that the event is family-friendly, with activities for all age groups.
“For children, there will be jumping castles and fun games,” she said proudly.
“We want them to enjoy and learn the importance of staying healthy from a young age. The inclusion of family-oriented activities, she explained, is part of Zimpapers’ mission to build awareness from the grassroots.
“Cancer affects everyone — parents, siblings, children — so everyone must be part of the conversation,” she added.
The event will also feature donations and fundraising initiatives for cancer patients and survivors. “There will be donations for cancer victims,” Matanda stated. “We urge people to come in numbers and support this event. Every contribution, no matter how small, goes a long way in helping someone who is fighting cancer.”
Corporate partners, NGOs, and community groups are expected to support the initiative through sponsorships, health exhibits, and giveaways.
“The support we have received each year is amazing,” Matanda said. “It shows that people are not only aware of the issue but are also willing to take action.”
Over the years, the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk has funded awareness campaigns, provided assistance to patients, and supported research and advocacy efforts.
It has also helped survivors share their stories, inspiring others to seek screening and treatment.
This year’s edition will also see participation from government officials, medical professionals, and cancer survivors. “There will be Government officials, those with cancer, and those who have recovered from cancer,” Matanda said. “We want to show that this fight requires all of us — no one is immune.”
Various health organisations will set up booths offering free health checks, including blood pressure testing, sugar level checks, and cancer screening.
“Our health partners have always been committed to this cause,” Matanda said.
“The walk provides an opportunity for people to get screened and ask questions about their health.”
Adding a touch of energy to the event will be fitness instructors leading Zumba sessions across all venues. “Zumba has become one of the highlights of the day,” Matanda said. “After the walk, everyone gathers for high-energy routines; it’s fun, it’s healthy, and it’s uniting.”
Reflecting on the past decade, Matanda noted that the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk has grown beyond expectations.
“When we started, we never imagined it would become this big,” she said. “At first, it was just Harare; now it’s a nationwide movement.”
She credited the success to teamwork and the unwavering support of the Zimpapers family.
“This event would not be possible without the Zimpapers staff, our sponsors, the media, and, of course, the public,” she said. “It’s a collective effort that proves that when people unite for a good cause, great things happen.”
The 10th anniversary, she said, is both a celebration and a call to action.
“We have come a long way, but there’s still more to be done,” Matanda emphasised.
“Cancer awareness must continue every day, not just during the walk.” As participants lace up their shoes and prepare to take their first steps, the message behind the walk rings louder than ever: awareness saves lives.
Matanda’s voice carried both passion and urgency as she made her final appeal.
“We urge people to come in numbers and support this event,” she said. “Let’s walk for those fighting cancer, for those we have lost, and for the generations to come. Together, we can make a difference.”
Popular fitness trainer Charles Manjera of Sir Charles Fitness, who has participated in this event for the past four years, expressed his happiness in being associated with the Zimpapers brand. “I have seen a lot of enthusiasm from the fans who took part, and each event brings a unique experience altogether.”
At the end of the event at various venues, participants are expected to head home inspired, empowered, and enlightened with renewed hope.
This has always been the message preached at this annual event. Various sponsors and partners have joined the 10th Cancer Power Walk with pride.
These include FBC, Memsha, Sunny Yi Feng, Harare Encology, NEC Electronics, Allied Health Practitioners, Roma Pix, Corporate 24, Mutare City Council, Tanganda, Bermax, Red Cross Society, ZIMOCO, Fidelity Life Assurance, Hevo FM, Hybrid Travel Tours, Crystal Trust School, Tyre Club, Willsgrove, NEC, Zorro The Trainer, St. Giles, Campus Radio, DS Kids, HEMS, among others.
This endorsement clearly demonstrates the impact the event has had on many people’s lives.
With the focus now shifting to those in the diaspora, the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk is undoubtedly one of the biggest events on the national calendar that should not be missed.
