The journey to one of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders has burst into life with the launch of the Asambeni Malegends Intercity Relay Marathon, which kicked off in spirited fashion at Long Cheng Mall in Harare on Saturday. This electrifying initiative — powered by Econet Wireless in collaboration with Urban Africa — serves as the official prelude to the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon (EVFM), Zimbabwe’s premier international sporting event, set to take place on Sunday 6 July at Baobab Primary School in Victoria Falls.
Covering an ambitious 825 kilometres across several provinces, the relay is more than a race — it’s a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and national pride. Culminating at the marathon venue just a day before the big race, the event stitches together communities, celebrates Zimbabwean talent, and reaffirms the country’s place on the global sports map.
The relay features 33 runners, each hailing from towns and regions along the route. Every athlete completes a 25-kilometre leg during daylight hours, carrying not just a baton, but the spirit of their communities. The race was set in motion by Felistas Murinzi, who ran the first leg to Norton. From there, the baton passed to Lynell Howera, who powered on to Chakari, followed by Edwin Phinias to Mhondoro, Washington Huchu to Chegutu, and Takunda Mawire, who brought the day’s journey to a close in Kadoma.
Upcoming legs will take the runners through Kwekwe, Gweru, Bulawayo, and Hwange, before crossing the finish line at 5:30 PM on Saturday, 5 July, in Victoria Falls. To ensure smooth operations and runner safety, the relay is supported by a MARS ambulance, escort vehicles, and dedicated security teams throughout its course.
According to Urban Africa, this campaign is a bold expression of its mission to deepen customer engagement, build emotional brand connections, and spotlight Zimbabwean excellence. “The Asambeni Malegends relay is more than a marketing activation — it’s a unifying force, rallying Zimbabweans behind a shared sense of purpose, wellness, and national pride,” said the company.
The relay is a key highlight in the build-up to the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon, which will welcome athletes from over 34 countries this year, cementing its role as a major international draw and a catalyst for tourism and brand visibility. The marathon festivities will conclude with the high-energy Buddie Beatz concert, expected to attract thousands of participants and spectators, wrapping up a week of sport, celebration, and community connection.
As the runners blaze their trail toward the thundering Victoria Falls, crowds are turning out in force along the route — cheering them on, waving flags, and transforming towns into festive hubs of support and shared national spirit.
