Online Reporter
Senior Reporter
THOUSANDS of people across six cities joined the 10th edition of the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk yesterday, demonstrating a powerful display of national solidarity in the fight against cancer.
The event, one of Zimpapers’ foremost corporate social responsibility initiatives, was held concurrently in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru, Masvingo and Chinhoyi under the theme “United by unique”.
The annual walk-and-run event offered participants a choice of 5km and 10km walks or runs, along with a 21km run/cycle, all designed to promote health consciousness and collective action against the disease.
Guest of honour at the Harare event, Mr Nick Mangwana, who is Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, commended Zimpapers for sustaining what has become an impactful national initiative.
“Each one of you here is participating to affirm that in this fight, we are truly united by unique,” Mr Mangwana stated.
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“Since its inception in 2016, the Cancer Power Walk has exponentially grown in impact, raising more than US$106 983.13 towards cancer awareness and palliative care through Island Hospice.”
He also praised Island Hospice and Healthcare for their vital palliative care and outreach work nationwide, noting that without their commitment, many compatriots would face greater suffering.
He specifically acknowledged cancer survivors and caregivers present, describing them as “living proof that early detection, treatment, community support and hope do matter”.
A significant feature of this year’s event was the prominent use of the colour green, representing a strategic shift to broaden cancer awareness beyond a single type of cancer.
While many associate cancer awareness with the colour pink, Zimpapers deliberately chose green to highlight liver cancer awareness and to symbolise universal values of growth, renewal and life.
Healthcare providers supported the cause by setting up exhibition stands and offering free medical check-ups, including cancer screenings, emphasising the critical importance of early detection for successful treatment.
Addressing the gathering, Zimpapers board member Mrs Sibyl Madzikanda reflected on the milestone, saying the 10th edition was not merely a celebration of a decade of walking, but a “decade of hope, strength and unity in the fight against cancer”.
“Each type of cancer has its own awareness colour, and this year we chose green . . . . symbolising growth, renewal and life — qualities that reflect the incredible resilience of cancer patients and survivors,” she said.
She also extended heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, partners and participants, whose collective effort ensured the event’s continued success, reinforcing a national commitment to confronting cancer through awareness, support and community action.
