Cimas iGo marathon championing awareness of men’s health

Cimas Health Group has set November 17 and 24 dates for this year’s edition of the annual Cimas iGo half-marathon.
The marathon will take place in both Harare and Bulawayo, with the Harare leg set for Sunday, November 17, at ZB Sports Club and the Bulawayo leg at Bulawayo Athletic Club on Sunday, November 24.

This year’s marathon will be held under the theme: “Men’s Health Champions Build Healthier Communities”, with a strong focus on raising awareness about men’s health, particularly prostate and testicular cancer.

In both Harare and Bulawayo, the marathon will kick off with the 21km race at 5:30 AM, followed by the 10km race at 6:00 AM, and the 5km race at 6:30 AM.

Interested participants can register for the marathon online through Cimas platforms, with a registration fee of US$15. This fee includes a race pack containing a T-shirt, string bag, and medal.

Cimas Health Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Vuli Ndlovu, said the Cimas iGo half marathon aims to promote wellness and aligning with Movember initiatives meant to raise awareness of men’s health issues, particularly cancers that affect men.

“In recognition of Men’s Health Awareness Month, also known as Movember, a global movement focused on raising awareness around men’s health issues, Cimas Health Group is proud to host the Cimas iGo half marathon to bring attention to prostate cancer and other men’s health concerns,” Mr Ndlovu said.

“The marathon designed to encourage both physical fitness and motivate men to take control of their health is open to all members of the public, whether you are an avid runner, health enthusiast, or simply wish to support this noble cause.”

Mr Ndlovu said all proceeds from the marathon will be donated to the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe as part of Cimas Health Group’s corporate social responsibility.

“Last year’s Cimas iGo half marathon, was oversubscribed, and US$13 753 was raised. The money was donated to the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe, reaffirming our commitment to the fight against cancer, which remains one of the leading health challenges not only in Zimbabwe,” Mr Ndlovu noted.

“We expect this year’s edition of the iGo half marathon to be even bigger and better than last year when 1,422 athletes participated in different races. By hosting this marathon as part of our Movember initiatives, Cimas Health Group promotes physical activity and fosters a culture where men must feel empowered to address their health concerns.”

Mr Ndlovu said that, through the iGo brand, Cimas can provide holistic wellness programmes that reflect global standards. Cimas has always promoted wellness within its member base and the broader community.

“The Cimas iGo wellness programme, under which this marathon is held, is dedicated to improving the health and lifestyle of Zimbabweans through various activities, such as health screenings, fitness and wellness events,” he said.
“As we join the global Movember movement to raise awareness for men’s health, let’s not forget the important role women can play in supporting their partners’ wellbeing, encouraging them to prioritize their health, and fostering a culture of openness.”

Mr Ndlovu said men commonly face health issues such as prostate cancer, a disease affecting millions of men globally, testicular cancer, mental health challenges including depression and anxiety, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, among others.

According to the Cancer Research Institution, prostate cancer is the second most common for men, only trailing skin cancer. The research institution notes that approximately 1.3 million men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually, and one in seven men will be impacted by it in their lifetime.

“As Cimas Health Group we encourage all men to get screened for prostate cancer and take charge of their health through regular medical check-ups and professional support. I encourage citizens, government agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organisations, and other interested groups to join in activities that will increase awareness of what Zimbabweans can do to prevent and cure prostate cancer,” Mr Ndlovu noted.

“Traditionally, men have been reluctant to seek medical help or discuss health issues openly, fearing it might be seen as a sign of weakness. However, breaking this stigma in Movember is crucial, as open communication is essential for wellbeing.”

Mr Ndlovu said that raising awareness can help to reduce stigma and ensure that people with health conditions receive the care and support they need.