Online Reporter
Michelle Musandinyoze, Zimpapers Writer
SCORES of people took part in the Zimpapers organised Annual Cancer Power Walk in Bulawayo yesterday with a number of participants dedicating the event to their personal experiences, survivors and loved ones who battled the disease.
The event, which was the Zimpapers’ 10th edition Annual Cancer Commemoration showcased immense public support for breast cancer awareness and honoured the strength and resilience of those who fought the disease, while also remembering those who lost their lives.
Similar events were held by the country’s largest integrated media house – Zimpapers, in Harare and Mutare.
The participants marched along the city streets, spreading the message of hope, love and support for those fighting the disease and celebrated the survivors and loved ones who stood by them.
In a speech read on her behalf by Acting Deputy Director Human Resources in her office, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Judith Ncube applauded Zimpapers for playing a leading role in the fight against cancer.
“Let me begin by expressing my heartfelt appreciation to Zimpapers for their unwavering commitment to using the power of the media not only to inform and educate, but also to mobilise communities in the fight against cancer. You have turned journalism into a tool for hope, healing and humanity and for that, we thank you.
Today’s walk is more than just a physical activity. It is a journey of hope, of unity, and of determination. It is a celebration of life and resilience, placing cancer survivors at the heart of our efforts, while also remembering, with love and respect, those we have lost to this disease,” she said.
Minister Ncube said in Bulawayo, the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk has become an important fixture on the calendar, a day when citizens, organisations and communities come together for a common purpose – to walk, to give and to care.
Speaking at the same event, Zimpapers Bulawayo Branch Operations Manager Mr Prosper Dube said as part of Zimpapers’ Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, the Cancer Power Walk has successfully reached its 10-year milestone.
“Today’s event was a huge success, attracting not only a large number of participants but also corporate citizens, for which we are immensely grateful. We were particularly impressed by the increasing number of school children who understand the importance of maintaining physical and mental health to combat the disease.
“We truly appreciate the teamwork demonstrated by both staff, participants and sponsors in making this event successful. The presence of the Minister of State was the icing on the cake, marking the first time in 10 years that such a high-ranking official graced the event,” said Mr Dube.
He said the funds raised through the walk will go directly to Island Hospice, that continue to provide critical palliative care and support to cancer patients and their families.
In an interview, Ms Primrose Manyonda, one of the participants who came from Harare, said the event was something deeply personal to her as she was honouring her father who succumbed to cancer as well as her cousin who is currently battling the disease.
“Early detection is important, I encourage people to get wellness tests every now and then regardless of whether they feel healthy or not,” she said.
“I also want people to know that there is really nothing scary about cancer, however, it is important for everyone to get tested early so that its treated in its early stages,” she said.
Another participant Ms Thembi Moyo, encouraged people to self-examine and look out for any abnormalities that they may feel on their breasts such as lumps.
“I decided to take part because l myself, suffered from breast cancer and also lost family members to the disease, therefore I want to spread awareness and support to other people who are going through the same thing.”
The event was also attended by young people of various ages. Two friends aged 15, shared their commitment to supporting breast cancer survivors saying they want to spread a message of hope, letting cancer victims know that they are not alone.
“I decided to partake because l felt that it is important to help the community by joining this movement today, I also want people to know that they should not shut themselves and feel like they are alone because we are here for them,” said Prince Ncube.
His colleague, Nhlanhla Sibanda said he took part in the event in acknowledgement of his mother who is a nurse aide, recognising the hard work she does to save lives every day.
Zimpapers employees joined the walk in their numbers highlighting that their duty goes beyond the gathering and dissemination of news.
