P300k windfall for Kidz Marathon
By Naledi Lemogang
Absa Bank Botswana has announced a sponsorship of P300,000.00 for the 2024 Summer Kidz Marathon, which will be held in Gaborone on April 20. This partnership makes Absa the title sponsor of the marathon, which will now be known as the ‘ Absa Summer Kids Marathon’.
The event is open to children aged between 4 and 16 years old, and the theme for this year’s edition is ‘ Unleashing the Smart Generation’.
This theme reflects the marathon’s focus on promoting physical activity, healthy living, and an active lifestyle for children in Botswana.
Speaking at the partnership’s official launch, the retail banking director of Absa Bank Botswana, Valeta Mthimkhulu stated that their partnership with Fan Mo Sport, the organizers of the Summer Kids Marathon, is something they are excited about. The partnership is a perfect match for their shared mission of promoting the physical, educational, and financial well- being of children and youth in Botswana. “This partnership will anchor our Future U proposition. Future U SAVINGS Account, is an offering designed for the young saver from birth to 18 years. This account allows parents to save for their children’s future. Summer Kidz embodies the values we as a bank, hold dearly to us, it is not just a sporting event, it is a celebration of health, wellness and community spirit,” she said. “As we look ahead to the Summer Kidz Marathon 2024, we are filled with optimism and excitement that over 1000 children aged between 4 and 16 years are targeted to participate, which means this year’s event promises to be bigger and better. Our sponsorship for the Summer Kidz Marathon also aligns perfectly with our broader corporate citizenship initiatives,” Mthimkhulu added.
Martin Fani, the coordinator of the Summer Kidz Marathon, expressed his gratitude to Absa Bank Botswana and all their partners for their support in promoting wellness and raising funds for less privileged children. He noted that the event has grown over the years, and this year’s edition has included a special category for children with special needs. This is an important step towards making the event more inclusive and accessible to all children in Botswana. “Summer Kids Marathon 2024 will also prioritize in making a difference through execution of a social corporate investment project by donating schoolbooks and shoes to needy children in remote areas around Botswana and community building clean up campaigns. We previously donated in Kweneng District in Medie and Maboane primary schools,” he stated.
Registration for the Summer Kids Marathon 2024 is still open and costs P250 for all categories. The registration fee includes a goodie bag, which contains a race number, a branded medal, a t- shirt, and snacks. The event will take place at the Three Dikgosi Monument in CBD on the 20th April. .