Online Reporter
Oliver Kazunga
Senior Reporter
THE 10th edition of the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk begins today across the country, bringing thousands of participants in unison to raise awareness, promote early detection and support those affected by cancer.
The annual event, which has become one of Zimbabwe’s leading Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, will take place concurrently in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru, Masvingo and Chinhoyi.
Participants will take part in 5km, 10km and 21km walks and runs under the theme “United by Unique”.
In an interview ahead of the event yesterday, Zimpapers acting chief executive officer Mr William Chikoto, said this year’s event marks an important milestone in the organisation’s commitment to public health and community empowerment.
“This 10th edition is not just an anniversary, but a reaffirmation of who we are as a responsible corporate citizen.
“Through this initiative, we are standing in solidarity with every Zimbabwean family that has been touched by cancer. This is about saving lives through awareness, early detection and collective action,” he said.
The annual Cancer Power Walk, Mr Chikoto said, has over the years grown into a national movement that unites individuals, corporates and health institutions behind a common cause.
“Over the past decade, the initiative has raised significant awareness and resources to support Island Hospice and Healthcare in providing palliative care to cancer patients.
“We are grateful to our sponsors, partners and the public for their continued support — because without them, this campaign would not have reached this level of impact,” he said.
This year, participants are wearing green — a colour representing liver cancer awareness and symbolising growth, renewal and life.
The change from the traditional pink highlights the fact that cancer comes in many forms and affects people differently.
Funds raised from the event will go towards supporting cancer awareness and care programmes through Island Hospice.
In recent years, the campaign has helped mobilise financial and emotional support for survivors and families dealing with the disease.
Mr Chikoto urged Zimbabweans to continue embracing healthy lifestyles and regular medical check-ups as part of cancer prevention.
“We encourage everyone to take part, get screened, and spread the message that early detection saves lives.
“The Cancer Power Walk is more than a fitness event — it’s a commitment to life, health and community.”
The initiative is supported by a wide range of corporate and institutional partners as well as individuals.
Meanwhile, this year’s walk takes on a new colour — green – with participants across the country uniting to raise awareness and celebrate life in the fight against cancer.
Zimpapers public relations and events manager, Mrs Pauline Matanda, said the decision to wear green is meant to broaden the message of cancer awareness beyond one type of cancer.
“Many people associate cancer awareness with pink, but the fact is that cancer isn’t just about one colour or one type.
“Each form of cancer has its own awareness colour, and this year we chose green to highlight liver cancer awareness,” she said.
The colour green, she said, carries deep symbolic meaning.
“Green represents growth, renewal and life — values that reflect the strength and resilience of cancer patients and survivors.
“By wearing green, we’re not only showing support for those battling liver cancer, but also celebrating the courage of everyone affected by cancer in its many forms.”
The annual Cancer Power Walk continues to serve as a platform for building unity and compassion within communities, she added.
“When we walk together, we remind each other that awareness and early detection save lives. This event brings together families, survivors, corporate partners and health advocates — all united by one purpose,” said Mrs Matanda.
She encouraged participants to wear their green with pride and spread the message that cancer awareness is about supporting each other and celebrating life.
In 2024, the event drew over 2 000 participants and this year at least 3 000 people across the country are expected to take part.
Peter Tanyanyiwa