- It returns bigger, better and more focused on community building
GAZETTE REPORTER
The much-anticipated 4th edition of the Absa Summer Kids Marathon is set to take place at the iconic Three Dikgosi Monument in the Gaborone CBD on 26 April 2025.
Under the theme “Forever Young and Active,” this year’s event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that encourages children to embrace health, fitness and vitality in all aspects of their lives.
The lead organiser of the marathon, Martin Fani, has noted the overwhelming support from children and their parents. “We want to host a complaints- and injury-free event,” he said in an interview. “The kids’ enthusiasm and the trust parents have placed in us motivate us to deliver a top-notch experience.”
Early registration
Preparations for the marathon began last September with an Independence Activation event that reconnected children with the joy of fitness after a long break. The children’s proud display of Botswana’s national colour- blue, black and white – was a testament to the importance of the initiative.
“This year’s response has been phenomenal,” Fani shared. “Early Bird registration, which closed on December 31, exceeded our target of 150 kids, with 263 children signing up. This shows the confidence parents have in the event.
“Standard registration is now open for P250 per child, and we encourage parents to register early to avoid last-minute challenges with T-shirt sizes and medal shortages.”
Expanding reach and impact
As a matter of fact, Fani emphasised that late registration will not be accommodated, ensuring the event is catered specifically to those registered by the 31 March deadline.
This year’s event is not just about the race day but a nationwide campaign to engage children in fitness and community-building activities. Regional activations are scheduled for Gaborone, Palapye, Maun, Jwaneng, Francistown and Letlhakane.
These activations will feature aerobics, short runs, warm-ups, and health-focused activities, coupled with cleanup campaigns and extracurricular engagements. “We want to give children across the country a taste of the marathon while instilling a sense of community and environmental responsibility,” said Fani.
A commitment to giving back
The marathon will also see an expanded range of merchandise, including shorts, tights, socks and bucket hats, all designed to reflect the vibrant red and white colours of the title sponsor, Absa Bank.
Corporate social responsibility remains a cornerstone of the Absa Summer Kids Marathon. Last year, the organisers donated sportswear and shoes to Kareng Primary School Hostel in the Northwest District.
This year, they aim to expand this initiative by identifying new beneficiaries in the regions they visit. “Our mission is not just to promote fitness but also to leave a lasting impact in the communities we touch,” Fani stated.
Gratitude and call to action
The event’s success is bolstered by the unwavering support of partners such as Absa Bank and the Ministry of Sports. However, Fani highlighted the importance of attracting new sponsors to sustain and grow the initiative.
“We are grateful to our longstanding sponsors and urge other companies to support this impactful initiative,” he said. “Together, we can inspire a generation to embrace health, fitness and the community spirit.”