HERALD

Zimswitch, KidzCan raise funds for child cancer care at Victory Lap Run

Business Reporter

Zimswitch has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable social impact through its partnership with KidzCan Zimbabwe for the second edition of the Victory Lap Run, held on November 1, 2026.

The fundraising initiative seeks to raise awareness of childhood cancer while mobilising support for affected children and their families.

The event attracted more than 1,000 runners, bringing together corporates, financial institutions, the community, families and members of the public in a powerful demonstration of collective action for a worthy cause. All proceeds from the event will be donated to KidzCan Zimbabwe to support childhood cancer treatment, patient welfare and family support programmes.

The partnership forms part of Zimswitch’s broader Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and sustainability agenda, which seeks to create lasting value beyond business by investing in initiatives that positively impact communities and contribute to national development.

Speaking at the event, Zimswitch chief executive officer Mr Zabron Chilakalaka said the initiative reflects the organisation’s belief that sustainable business growth must be accompanied by meaningful social investment.

“At Zimswitch, we believe sustainability is about creating positive change that extends beyond the payments ecosystem. Our partnership with KidzCan for the second edition of the Victory Lap Charity Run reflects our commitment to building stronger communities and supporting causes that make a tangible difference in people’s lives. We are encouraged by the overwhelming participation witnessed this year, which demonstrates the power of collective action in driving positive change,” he said.

Zimswitch head of legal and company secretary Mr Pardon Magaya added that the initiative forms part of the organisation’s ESG agenda, with a deliberate focus on supporting cancer-related causes and creating meaningful social impact in the communities it serves.

“We believe that true sustainability is measured by the positive impact we create in people’s lives, and we are proud to support a cause that helps give children a better chance at a healthier future,” he said.

KidzCan executive director Mr Daniel McKenzie expressed gratitude for the continued partnership with Zimswitch, noting that collaborations of this nature play a critical role in supporting children and families affected by cancer.

“Behind every child battling cancer is a family facing immense emotional and financial challenges. Through partners like Zimswitch, we are able to provide hope, support and access to life-saving care. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and for every participant who took part in the Victory Lap Run. Together, we are reminding these children that they are not fighting alone,” he said.

The event builds on the success of the inaugural edition, which raised and donated US$14,000 to KidzCan, and further strengthens collaboration between the corporate sector, civil society and the broader community in addressing cancer-related challenges and advancing positive health outcomes for children across Zimbabwe.

Zimswitch is Zimbabwe’s national electronic payments switch, connecting financial institutions and enabling secure, convenient and interoperable digital payment services. Through its ESG and sustainability programmes, Zimswitch remains committed to advancing financial inclusion, community development and social impact initiatives that contribute to Zimbabwe’s sustainable future.