Africa-Press – Botswana. As the second edition of Zana Charity Run approaches this weekend, Selebi Phikwe is buzzing with anticipation, viewing the event as a chance to revive the town’s vibrant spirit which has been subdued by the closer of BCL mine.
Zana Charity Run, conceived by Bulb World Company brings together various privately owned businesses in Selebi Phikwe, all united in their efforts to participate in the corporate social responsibility.
The much-awaited charity run not only promises an exciting day of athleticism and fun, but it is a symbol of resilience, unity and eager to reclaim the heart and soul of the community.
The event coordinator, Bakang Makoko said the purpose of event was to raise funds for seven juniors secondary schools in Selibe Phikwe.
He said the schools were selected to address their urgent need for stationary and other essentials. Also, he said the move was a commitment to supporting Selebi Phikwe schools that excelled in national and regional examination ranking.
Mr Makoko emphasised the necessity of the event, not only as a fundraiser for charitable causes, but also as a way to foster community spirit and engagement.
Kesegofetse Barwadi, a community member described the event as chance to reunite and reflect on the spirit that once defined Selebi Phikwe, despite the vibrancy lost following mine’s closure..
“We need more of such events to remind us of the vibrancy of Selebi Phikwe. I appreciate the organisers of the event, with their first edition they proved that fun activities have a long way to make a difference in the community. The donations they made to several learners proved their transparency and the love of the well-being of some disadvantaged individuals,” she said.
Businesses are also seizing the moment for a spike in sales on the day of the event.
A street vendor, Ms Padubiwa Gosalamang said the first edition of the event attracted a lot of people and the influx of the customers at her business made a difference in sales. As such she is hopeful that with the second edition, she would return home smiling.
The Mayor of Selibe Phikwe, Mr Oageng Makgosa said Zana Charity Run presented a platform for growth and collaborations that needed to be extended and nurtured beyond the finish line.
He said the idea to give back to the community through the run resonated well with the needs of schools.
Mr Makgosa acknowledged the efforts of Selebi Phikwe natives, now business owners in the area, for their meaningful impact on the towns’s education in local schools.
For her part, the District Commissioner of Selebi Phikwe, Ms Boikhutso Matenge appreciated the business community for engaging in corporate social responsibility amidst the challenges that some of them were faced with.
She said the effort reflected a sense of civic duty and the desire to make a difference in the community they operated in.
For More News And Analysis About Botswana Follow Africa-Press
