Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
AT just 11-years-old, Taanashe Magondo has already learnt that fighting cancer requires courage, determination and hope.
Having endured five cycles of cancer treatment, the young girl- who was diagnosed with Burkitt Lymphoma- used her personal experience to deliver an inspiring message at the Zimpapers Cancer
Power Walk held at Coghlan Primary School in Bulawayo on Saturday, urging people to prioritise cancer awareness and early detection.
Her message was simple but powerful: people should not be afraid to get screened, while misconceptions surrounding the disease must be challenged.
“My journey has not been easy. I have gone through five cycles of treatment, but I want to encourage everyone to get tested because early detection is important. Cancer is not contagious, and people should not be afraid or ashamed to talk about it. I also want to use my story to encourage other children,” said Magondo.
Beyond sharing her experience, the 11-year-old, who is in Grade six, is also working on a book, with proceeds expected to go towards Kidz Care, reflecting her determination to use her journey to support other children affected by cancer.
Her story provided one of the most touching moments at an event that brought together people from different generations and backgrounds under the theme, “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters”.
The Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk combined fitness, education and entertainment, giving participants an opportunity to support a cause that continues to affect families across the country.
The route was filled with colour and excitement as people of different ages took part, with some participants breaking into a run along sections of the course.
The walk demonstrated how a shared cause can unite communities, with participants showing solidarity with cancer patients and survivors while encouraging others to prioritise their health.
After the walk, the energy continued with a Zumba session, giving participants another opportunity to exercise while enjoying music and coordinated dance routines.
However, the programme went beyond physical activity, with a strong educational component aimed at ensuring participants left better informed about cancer.
Breast cancer specialist Dr Munyarazi Magara delivered an informative lecture, highlighting the seriousness of the disease and the importance of screening and early detection.
“Breast cancer is the biggest killer of all cancers worldwide,” said Dr Magara.
He highlighted Zimbabwe’s cancer burden, noting that approximately 2 500 new cases are recorded, while emphasising that early diagnosis improves the chances of successful treatment.
The specialist urged people to take screening seriously and seek medical attention rather than waiting until symptoms become severe.
His presentation reinforced one of the central messages of the walk: cancer awareness must translate into action through regular checks and timely medical attention.
The educational programme continued with an interactive quiz, allowing participants to test their understanding of the information shared during the lecture.
There was excitement as correct answers earned participants prizes donated by Econet, adding an engaging dimension to the awareness campaign.
One participant, Ms Sithulile Moyo, said the initiative had successfully combined physical activity with an important health message.
“This was not only a fun walk but also educational. I believe initiatives like this one go a long way in terms of breast cancer awareness,” said Ms Moyo.
The event also supported Island Hospice and Healthcare, highlighting the important role played by organisations that provide care and support to people affected by serious illnesses.
Ultimately, the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk was about more than the distance covered. It provided a platform for breaking the silence around cancer, challenging misconceptions, sharing knowledge and motivating people to take early detection seriously.
The event was supported by corporate partners and stakeholders who came on board to strengthen the cancer awareness initiative.
Among the sponsors and partners were FBC, NEDIC, Rugare Hlalani Kuhle Health, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Bulawayo City Council (BCC), Econet, Fort Group, Print Flow, Lobels Bread,
Valley Fruits and Vegetables, Skyz Metro FM, Ecobank and Calm Health Insurance.
Their support highlighted the importance of partnerships in amplifying health awareness campaigns and mobilising communities around causes that affect society.
