Mpofu, Chepkoech win Kamandama race
by SIBONGILE SIBANDA
HWANGE – THE annual Kamandama Memorial Marathon was held this past Sunday in Hwange, bringing together hundreds of athletes from across Africa and beyond to honour the victims of Zimbabwe’s worst mining disaster.
Runners from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and several other countries joined local competitors in a powerful display of solidarity, remembrance, and community resilience.
The marathon commemorates the 427 miners who lost their lives in the Kamandama Mine Disaster of June 6, 1972, when an underground gas explosion at Hwange Colliery’s No. 2 Mine caused one of the deadliest mining accidents in African history.
The tragedy left a permanent mark on the nation, and the annual race has become an important symbol of healing and collective memory.
Hwange Colliery Company Managing Director William Gambiza said the event continues to demonstrate the community’s strength.
“We see a community that has risen above tragedy and is striving to move forward. The 427 are heroes and will always be remembered,” he said.
Company Administrator Munashe Shava added that the marathon reflects the region’s ongoing recovery.
“This story will forever remain with this community, but this marathon shows that we are healing, rediscovering hope, and developing.”
The Minister of State for Matabeleland North, Richard Moyo, reaffirmed the significance of the occasion, noting that the memory of Kamandama inspires resilience and commitment to national development.
In the main 42km race, Zimbabwe’s Isaac Mpofu won the Men’s Category, earning US$4,500, while Kenya’s Jacinta Chepkoech claimed the Ladies Category and the same prize money.
Despite its solemn origins, the event delivered moments of joy and unity—signifying that even in remembrance, the journey toward healing continues.
