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By Judith Matanire
The Cimas iGo Half Marathon held on Sunday at ZB Sports Club in Harare brought together over 1,500 participants, far surpassing initial expectations.
The event, centered on the theme “Men’s Health Champions Build Healthier Communities,” aimed to promote awareness of men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer and mental health.
This year’s marathon not only exceeded expectations in participation but also served as a platform to address critical health issues affecting men, such as prostate cancer and mental health.
Cimas Health Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Vuli Ndlovu, expressed delight at the turnout, emphasizing the importance of the event in promoting health awareness.
“I am quite pleased with the turnout. We had over 1,400 people register, and we surpassed that figure,” Ndlovu said. “This marathon is an opportunity for us to communicate and encourage men to prioritize their health.
Prostate cancer and mental health are significant issues, and we are raising awareness about early detection and regular checkups. The earlier cancer is detected, the higher the chances of successful treatment.” Ndlovu also highlighted the need to address mental health stigma among men.
“Mental health affects everyone, yet men are often reluctant to seek help. This event is a reminder that we all need to prioritize our mental well-being. The high rate of suicide among men, as seen in recent reports, is a clear indicator that we must encourage open conversations and early intervention,” he added.
At Cimas, we are committed to raising awareness about men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer. We trust that through events like these, we inspire men to take action, visit their doctors, and get screened.” Looking ahead, Madzikanda invited fitness enthusiasts to join the next edition of the iGo Half Marathon in Bulawayo.
“On Sunday, November 24, we’ll be hosting the next iGo Marathon at the Bulawayo Athletic Club. We encourage everyone to participate and help us build healthier communities together,” she said. The marathon began with much fanfare as participants in the 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km races kicked off their runs with enthusiasm.
Post-race activities included complimentary massages as well as an engaging Zumba session that kept the energy alive. Proceeds from the event will support the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe, which provides vital services to cancer patients and their families.
Junior Mavu, the association’s General Manager, expressed gratitude for Cimas’ continued support. “The funds raised will go a long way in helping us provide chemotherapy drugs, food hampers, and fuel for patient follow-ups. After a cancer diagnosis, patients face numerous uncertainties, and our mission is to provide the support they need,” she said.
“This marathon is not just about running; it’s about making a difference,” Ndlovu concluded. “We are proud to have played our part in encouraging men to take charge of their health, and we look forward to even greater impact in the future.” Nhau/Indaba
