Online Reporter
Business Reporter
ZB Financial Holdings will host the ZB @75 Marathon on Sunday, September 20, at ZB Sports Club in Vainona, Harare, as part of its efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and raise awareness against drug and substance abuse.
Held under the theme “Every Step For You – Say No to Drugs”, the marathon forms part of celebrations marking ZB Bank’s 75th anniversary and is officially recognised as a qualifier for the Comrades Marathon.
ZB executive head of brand and corporate communications Mrs Emilliah Mabika said the event was designed to extend beyond sporting activities by promoting healthier communities and social responsibility.
“The marathon is therefore not simply a sporting event. It is an opportunity to celebrate our journey, reflect on the milestones we have achieved together and share our vision for the future,” she said.
Mrs Mabika said the anniversary celebrations were centred on the organisation’s broader contribution to communities, businesses and institutions that had been part of its development over the years.
“Importantly, it allows us to invest in healthier and stronger communities by promoting wellness, encouraging active lifestyles and bringing people together around a shared purpose,” she said.
The marathon will also highlight ZB’s sustainability agenda, which is anchored on financial inclusion, agriculture and agro-value chain development, and infrastructure development.
Mrs Mabika said sustainability was integrated into the Group’s business strategy rather than being treated as a standalone initiative.
“The marathon provides an opportunity for us to bring sustainability to life in a tangible way. It promotes health and wellbeing, strengthens community engagement and supports positive social outcomes,” she said.
The marathon’s anti-drug advocacy component comes as drug and substance abuse remains a concern for communities, with the event seeking to use sport and public participation to encourage healthier lifestyles.
Mrs Mabika said the initiative was consistent with ZB’s purpose of improving lives through service and solutions.
“For us, sustainability is about walking the talk. It is about taking deliberate action today to create a better tomorrow,” she said.
She added that participants and communities involved in the marathon could contribute to broader social outcomes.
“Every participant, every kilometre covered and every community engaged through this marathon contributes towards building healthier communities, a stronger society and a more sustainable future,” Mrs Mabika said.
As part of the awareness campaign, the marathon will also feature discussions on mental health and substance abuse, including contributions from recovery advocate and inspirational speaker Mr Jacob Shamuyarira Pamvuri.
The event is expected to bring together athletes and members of the community around fitness, wellness and the campaign against drug and substance abuse.
Mrs Mabika said ZB’s 75th anniversary was also an opportunity to reaffirm its long-term commitment to communities.
“We want to build a legacy that goes beyond financial services. A legacy of trust, accountability, service excellence, empathy and innovation,” she said.
The ZB @75 Marathon is scheduled for 20 September at ZB Sports Club, Vainona.
