Chronicle Editor
Taboka Tshuma, Sunday News Reporter
THE Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk 2024 edition held yesterday sparked tremendous enthusiasm among hundreds of participants in Bulawayo who united in the fight against cancer.
Organised by Zimpapers, Zimbabwe’s largest integrated media group, in collaboration with Island Hospice and Healthcare, the annual event, now in its ninth year, focused on promoting early cancer detection and supporting those affected by the disease.
Kicking off at 6am from the Chronicle building, participants engaged in a 5 km walk aimed at raising community awareness about cancer, its testing, treatment and prevention.
Speaking on behalf of Zimpapers’ Chief Executive Officer, Mr Pikirai Deketeke, B-Metro editor Mr Limukani Ncube expressed profound gratitude to the sponsors and participants for their commitment to highlighting the critical importance of early cancer detection and support.
“Together, we are raising vital funds that will be donated to Island Hospice, an organisation that provides invaluable palliative care to those in need. Your presence and contributions today are making a profound difference in the lives of many, and for that, I extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you.”
Mr Ncube continued, “I would like to express our sincerest gratitude to our sponsors, whose generous contributions have been instrumental in the success of this event. Your support and generosity are deeply appreciated, and these have played a crucial role in making today’s event a grand success.”
The Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk has become a staple event, growing in strength each year. Mr Deketeke described this growth as a testament to the dedication and passion of everyone involved, emphasising its significance.
“This event is also a significant part of our corporate social responsibility as the leading media house in the country. We are committed to giving back to the community and supporting causes that make a difference.”
Highlighting the importance of awareness, he added, “In the month of October, our various media platforms have been running articles and programs to create awareness about cancer prevention. We believe that through education and awareness, we can make a substantial impact in the fight against cancer.”
Dr Sithandile Ngwenya, a trustee from Island Hospice, the beneficiary of the event’s fundraising efforts, praised the turnout in support of this crucial campaign. She emphasised that the initiative aims to raise awareness and funds for vital cancer research, ensuring better care for patients across various regions.
“The fight against cancer is global. We extend a very special thank you to Zimpapers, who, along with its partners, have championed the cause of awareness and prevention of cancers. According to the most recent Zimbabwe National Cancer Registry, the most common cancers were cervical-uteri (21 percent), prostate (11 percent), and breast (8 percent) cancer.”
Dr Ngwenya highlighted the urgency of early diagnosis, stating, “The data also showed that 80 percent of the patients diagnosed with cancer had stage three and four cancers, which is a very advanced disease. Advanced cancer is usually not curable but it can be controlled and treated. So, at whatever stage one is, there is always hope,” she said.
She further explained the necessity of increased awareness campaigns, urging early patient presentation for diagnosis and treatment.
“Our most powerful weapon against cancer is knowledge and we are grateful to Zimpapers for taking awareness very seriously. October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Island Hospice joined with many other organisations to push for greater awareness as well as the screening of women (and men) for breast cancer,” she added.
Online Reporter