Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk represents deep commitment to public health

Oliver Kazunga-Senior Reporter

THE Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk demonstrates deep commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), public health and the global drive to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Zimpapers acting chief executive officer Mr William Chikoto said this in an interview ahead of the 10th edition of the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk that will run concurrently across six cities — Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru, Masvingo and Chinhoyi — on Saturday.

The annual event, now a flagship initiative on the national calendar, is organised by Zimpapers.

From this year to 2027, it will run under the theme “United by Unique”.

Mr Chikoto said the Cancer Power Walk has become a national symbol of unity and compassion, spearheading cancer awareness, early detection and palliative care,
with the event’s proceeds donated to Island Hospice.

As the country’s biggest integrated media house, he said, Zimpapers, through its influence and airwaves, has a duty to use its platforms to save lives and build stronger communities.

“This 10th edition is not just an anniversary — it is a reaffirmation of who we are as a responsible corporate citizen, and through the Cancer Power Walk, Zimpapers continues to promote good health and well-being, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 that seeks to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all,” he said.

Mr Chikoto said the Cancer Power Walk also reflects SDG 17, which calls for partnership for sustainable development.

Over the years, the event’s success has been made possible through collaboration between Zimpapers and its various corporate partners, as well as Island Hospice and Healthcare, and multitudes of individuals.

“Without our sponsors and partners, the Cancer Power Walk would not have reached the level of national importance it enjoys today.

“We are grateful to every company that has stood with us — from banks to firms in different sectors, as well as fitness organisations and community health networks. It is crystal clear that when the private sector joins hands for the public good, the results are transformative,” he said.

Since the launch of the initiative in 2016, Zimpapers has raised and donated US$106 983.13, reflecting the growing impact of the campaign.

At its inception, US$2 526 was raised and last year, the Cancer Power Walk reached a record-breaking US$27 679.91 and ZiG43 043.39.

This year’s event is set to be bigger and more impactful than ever, with a number of outdoor and indoor activities lined up, among them cycling, Zumba dance and aerobics, as well as 5 kilometre, 10km and 21km walkathon and marathon.

Last year, over 2 000 participants across the country participated in the event.

This year’s event targets at least 3 000 participants.

Mr Chikoto said the Cancer Power Walk is a pillar of the company’s CSR strategy, which integrates social impact initiatives across its media, broadcasting and digital divisions.

And beyond health, Zimpapers has been active in education support, environmental conservation and youth empowerment programmes.

“Corporate Social Responsibility is not a side activity for us — it is woven into the fabric of our operations. Through initiatives like the Cancer Power Walk, we are giving back to the communities that sustain our business and ensuring that our brand stands for purpose, not just profit,” he said.

Meanwhile, Island Hospice has hailed Zimpapers for transforming Zimbabwe’s fight against cancer, raising awareness and resources that support thousands of patients in the country.

In a recent interview, Island Hospice head of programmes Mr Elias Masendu said their partnership with Zimpapers over the past decade has made a long-lasting impact in the lives of many Zimbabweans battling cancer.

“Zimpapers has been an all-weather friend of Island Hospice. They have been able to amplify our voice through their media capacity in raising awareness on cancer prevention, treatment and palliative care services in Zimbabwe,” he said,

“The funds raised through the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk have enabled Island Hospice to extend home-based palliative care services across the country.”

This year, Zimpapers has set an ambitious target to raise US$50 000 to support cancer patients, promoting early detection campaigns and consolidating partnerships with local health institutions.

“Funding from the Cancer Power Walk has allowed us to visit patients, purchase medications and provide much-needed home-based care.

“It has also supported our outreach clinics in underserved areas like Chikwaka, Mwanza and Zimunya, where we are often the only provider of cancer-related services.”