08 Nov 2021

First National Bank of Botswana (FNBB) will sponsor Kazungula Bridge Marathon with P1 million.

Speaking at the launch of the marathon’s sponsors and partners on Saturday, FNBB chief executive officer, Steven Bogatsu, said one of the bank’s sponsorship  pillars was health and wellbeing, hence supporting initiatives such as the Kazungula Bridge Marathon.

He said the sponsorship presented an opportunity for the bank to engage with its stakeholders in a meaningful way

He said the marathon, scheduled for February 26 next year, came at an opportune time not only to advocate for health and wellness, but also help with economic diversification.

Bogatsu said the bridge, which linked Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia, would boast trade and tourism.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development, Buti Billy said the marathon would unlock opportunities.  

He lauded the organisers for managing to associate with sponsors that were passionate about the development of the economy. He said sport tourism was needed to boost the country’s economy and reduce its dependency on mining.

He said the marathon came at the right time when the country was coming out of a closed economy due to the COVID-19.

Billy applauded Obert Morgan of Obert Fitness for coming up with the concept, saying it was in line with the Kasane Master Plan and Vision 2036.

He said the marathon would give exposure to the district, country and region since  it would attract more than 3 000 participants locally and from other countries.

For his part, Kgosi Thuso Wasetso said the marathon would revive the tourism sector in Chobe, which was severely affected by COVID-19.

Kgosi Wasetso said events such the Kazungula Bridge Marathon were a welcome development as they help unearth talent.

The marathon’s board chairperson, Boikie Tema said other sponsors were Kwa Nokeng Oil that offered 3 500 litres of fuel, Halfway Toyota that pledged five GD6 Hilux and a quantum for use until post the event.

He said Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) would give P100 000 as well as technical and quality assurance, while Coca Cola would be the hydration partner.

Tema pleaded with the corporate world to avail their resources to help the event reenergize and rejuvenate the economy.

And CEO of the marathon, Morgan, said his dream for the event was inspired by the Miami Marathon.

He thanked Chobe authorities for their unweaving support and commended the executive committee for managing to rope in the private sector.

Morgan said the marathon, which was postponed to next year due to COVID-19, will be divided into: 42km race, 21km, 10km and the 5km fun run.

The registration fee for the 42km is P400, 21km is P350, 10km is P300 and 5km is P250.

Winners of the main marathon will pocket P50 000, while prizes for other races are to be finalised. ENDS