The Jairos Jiri Association will revive its long-running Bulawayo fete next month and launch its first half marathon as it seeks to raise funds for programmes supporting people with disabilities.
The marathon will be held on 30 August, a day after the return of the Jairos Jiri Fete on 29 August, an event that for years was one of Bulawayo’s biggest community fundraising occasions.
Organisers say the two events are aimed at generating sustainable support for the association, which provides rehabilitation, education, vocational training and healthcare services for children and adults with disabilities across Zimbabwe.
“This is more than a sporting event or a family fun day,” the organising committee said.
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“It marks the revival of a proud tradition while creating a sustainable annual fundraising platform that promotes health, inclusion and community participation.”
The inaugural marathon will feature four categories: a 21km half marathon, a 10km run, a 10km wheelchair race and a 5km fun run and walk open to families, corporate teams and community groups.
The association said registration fees would directly support its rehabilitation, vocational training and care programmes.
“The marathon brings together runners, walkers, corporates and families around a common cause,” organisers said.
“Every registration contributes directly towards supporting the essential rehabilitation, training and care programmes offered by the Jairos Jiri Association.”
The revived fete will feature live entertainment, food stalls, children’s activities, corporate exhibitions and fundraising activities as organisers seek to restore it as one of Bulawayo’s flagship annual community events.
The association is appealing for sponsorship from businesses, development partners and individuals to help cover operational costs, participant kits, event branding, medals, refreshments, medical services and logistics.
“The successful hosting of this historic inaugural marathon and the revived fete depends greatly on the active support of the corporate sector, development partners, civic organisations and generous individuals,” the organising committee said.
Organisers are also inviting volunteers to assist with race management and activities during the fete.
For sponsorship opportunities, registration, volunteer sign-ups or further information, the organising committee can be contacted through B. Ncube on 0772 938 252, N. Khumalo on 077 796 3144, or L. Chinoda on 077 186 9065.
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