Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has unveiled an interactive and educational tool designed to foster a love for learning while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills among children. The new kids’ gaming platform makes education fun by offering a rich collection of games with educational content, carefully curated to support children’s cognitive growth in engaging ways. Econet said the platform focuses on foundational skills such as reading, writing and mathematics, while also stimulating creativity and logical thinking through playful yet structured activities. “Our new Kids Gaming Platform represents a step forward in combining technology with education to offer children an interactive way to learn,” Econet said in a statement. “Through the platform, we hope to inspire a love of learning in children while helping them build essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.”The launch of the new platform comes at a time when digital learning tools are rapidly gaining popularity across the African continent. 

In 2022, there were an estimated 180 million gamers in Africa, including Zimbabwe, with about 30% of them being children. By 2025, the number is projected to rise to 200 million. Gaming has become a key source of entertainment and social interaction for Zimbabwean children, providing a valuable outlet for both recreation and educational development.

In response to this growing trend, Econet’s platform is designed to offer a unique blend of education and entertainment, positioning itself as a valuable resource for parents and educators looking to integrate modern technology into the learning environment. “With its variety of math puzzles, reading exercises, and interactive stories, the platform enhances children’s cognitive skills in an enjoyable and stimulating manner,” Econet said. “The platform is not just about fun — it’s about learning in a way that feels natural to children. By offering educational games that require critical thinking and creative problem-solving, we are challenging kids to explore different scenarios, make decisions, and find solutions.”Complementing the games is a collection of educational videos that cover a wide range of topics, from basic literacy and numeracy to science, making learning both interactive and accessible.

“The platform can be accessed online on https://mykidzhub.econet.co.zw using any device, allowing children to engage with the content at home or on the go,” Econet added. 

“The flexibility ensures that learning doesn’t stop, whether children are using smartphones, tablets, or computers.”All the games and videos on the platform have been carefully vetted to ensure they are educationally valuable and appropriate for young users. The content aligns with the developmental needs of children, offering a safe and supportive environment where they can grow and thrive academically.Beyond academics, the platform also plays a significant role in developing crucial life skills such as teamwork, social interaction, and emotional intelligence.  With a child-friendly interface designed for easy navigation, children can easily explore the platform, selecting the games they wish to interact with. The intuitive design makes the learning experience both fun and user-friendly, ensuring that children can focus on their growth and development without being bogged down by complicated tech.

ECONET Wireless Zimbabwe, the country’s leading telecommunications and technology company, last week successfully hosted a Men’s Summit dedicated to addressing men’s mental health issues in commemoration of the ‘Suicide Prevention Awareness Month’ of September. The well-attended event, which drew close to 600 male employees from across the company, was organized by the firm’s Wellness Programme ‘My WellBeing’ and sought to imbed a personal understanding of mental health challenges and encourage men to open up and take proactive steps in addressing their mental well-being. Econet Group chief executive officer, Dr Douglas Mboweni, who addressed the summit held at Wild Geese Lodge and conferencing facility in Harare, highlighted the importance of mental well-being in achieving professional and personal success.

“As men, we often carry many burdens, from providing for our families to meeting professional and work targets. But we must realize that success that comes at the expense of our health is meaningless,” he said. “A balanced life, where mental health is prioritized, is essential if we are to operate optimally and achieve our personal and professional goals,” Dr Mboweni said. Citing global studies that say men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues than women, and that suggest that mental health issues are often stigmatised among men, Dr Mboweni encouraged men to open up and seek help when faced with emotional or psychological challenges.

Leading psychiatrist, medical doctor, health, family and personal development expert, Dr Sacrifice Chirisa – who was one of the main speakers at the Summit – underscored the importance of addressing mental health issues early. “Suicide is often a cry for help, it’s not attention seeking” he said. “Men need to understand that it’s okay to seek help and ask for support. We must create spaces where men feel safe to open up about their struggles and emotional challenges without fear of criticism or judgment,” he said, adding that the silence around mental health issues was one of the major reasons men are disproportionately affected by suicide. Dr Chirisa stressed that employers play a critical role in creating mental health-friendly environments, saying workplaces must be proactive in supporting mental health initiatives, “especially for men who might feel societal pressure to ‘man up’ and suppress their emotions”.

The Summit was part of Econet’s ongoing commitment to promoting mental health and wellness in the workplace and among its employees and their families. Through various initiatives, including free counselling services, mental health workshops and wellness programmes, the company said it aimed to create a work and home environment where mental health is openly discussed, and support is given timeously. The World Health Organization (WHO) says globally, men are more than twice as likely to die by suicide compared to women, making seminars like Econet’s Men’s Summit a vital platform for raising awareness and providing resources for timely intervention.

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has brought early Christmas cheer to eight winners of the company’s 2023 Christmas promotion, with each lucky customer receiving a brand-new residential house fully equipped with a home solar system and Econet Smart Home security. The grand prize giveaway ceremony, held at Penrose Estate in Nyabira, about 30km north-west of Harare on Wednesday, was attended by the lucky winners and a team from Econet led by the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Kezito Makuni. The Christmas promotion, dubbed “iKhisimusi Sifikile, Kisimusi Yatosvika – Tapinda Sesingenile” which was valued at over US$350 000, ran from November 2023 to February 2024. To qualify, Econet customers would simply recharge their mobile phones with at least US$5. During the promotion period, hundreds of participants won various prizes, including smartphones, gas stoves, airtime, cash prizes and branded regalia. Speaking at the handover ceremony of the houses, the winners expressed deep gratitude to Econet Wireless, Zimbabwe’s leading telecommunications and technology company, for the gesture. One of the grand prize winners, Ropafadzo Msida, a 25-year-old lady from Chiredzi, was ecstatic at winning a smart-house. “I never imagined I would win something so monumental. This house is more than just a prize; it’s the foundation of my family’s future. I am beyond thankful to Econet for making this possible,” said Msida, visibly emotional as she received the keys to her new home. Another winner, Rebecca Mushuku from Gutu in Masvingo, shared similar sentiments, saying she was in disbelief when she first heard she had won, and only believed after she had physically seen the house and signing the ownership papers. “All along, I thought it was a scam until I came here. Winning something this big was beyond my wildest dreams. I’m so thankful to Econet for turning my dream into reality,” she said. For Memory Chinyama, the news that he had won a house came at the perfect time. “I’ve been renting for years, and owning my own home seemed like a far-off dream. When I received the call, I was overwhelmed with joy! Thanks to Econet, I now have a place to call my own, which has completely transformed my life,” said Chinyama.

In addition to the grand prizes, Econet awarded home solar kits to other winners, a utility gift as Zimbabweans and the region at large continue to battle persistent power challenges. Rachidi Julius, from Raffingora, one of the solar kit recipients, expressed his appreciation: “With the ongoing power challenges, this solar kit will make a world of difference in my household. I can now rely on consistent power. Thank you Econet for this life-changing Christmas gift.” Meanwhile, five other lucky winners walked away with exciting holiday packages, with Econet sponsoring all-expenses-paid trips to Victoria Falls. Leon Masamba, one of the vacation package recipients, could hardly contain his excitement: “My family and I haven’t gone on a holiday in years, so this trip feels like a dream come true. God bless you Econet!”Makuni, hailed the success of the promotion, affirming the company’s commitment to rewarding its customers in meaningful ways. “We are excited at the overwhelming participation and level of customer engagement we have witnessed in our Christmas promotion. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to give back to our valued customers in a way that positively impacts their lives. “Our customers are at the heart of our business, and this initiative is more than just rewards — it’s about making a tangible difference in our customers’ everyday lives. “We believe these gifts will bring joy and meaningful change to their lives just in time for the upcoming Christmas holidays,” Makuni said.

ECONET’S innovative smart meters, designed to transform water and energy management while driving sustainability across Zimbabwe’s key economic sectors, stole the limelight at the recent Zimbabwe Agricultural Show. The cutting-edge e-M2M (Machine-to-Machine) integrated solution leverages advanced sensors, digital connectivity, and intuitive cloud-based software to provide real-time monitoring of crucial parameters, including temperature, humidity, location, energy consumption and water usage – all of great utility value in efficient resource management in critical sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and mining. “Our smart meters – also known as the Cold Chain, Water and Energy Management Solution – are a transformative solution designed to empower businesses, public enterprises and local councils to optimize their operations, create efficiencies by minimizing waste and promote sustainability. “We believe that this technology can be a real game-changer across multiple sectors of the economy,” said Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s chief operating officer, Mr Kezito Makuni.

During the weeklong exhibition, Econet’s stand was abuzz with activity, drawing in commercial farmers, industry leaders, Government officials, policy makers and individual consumers – all eager to learn more about the ground breaking technologies the company was exhibiting. Mr Makuni said the smart meters offer substantial benefits for both water utilities and their customers. “This powerful water monitoring solution enhances water management, reduces waste, improves customer service and supports the efficient and sustainable use of water resources, essentially modernizing water infrastructure management and ensuring communities have access to clean water,” he said. The introduction of smart meters comes at a critical time for Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, which remains a cornerstone of the nation’s economy. Water management, in particular, is vital for agricultural productivity, given the sector’s heavy dependence on a reliable and consistent water supply. With Econet’s smart meters, farmers can monitor water consumption in real-time, detect leaks instantly and optimize usage, thereby ensuring crops receive the necessary amount of water without any wastage.

“Our solution allows farmers to make informed decisions about water use, helping them to conserve the precious resource while maximizing crop yields. It’s about creating a sustainable future for Zimbabwean agriculture, and guaranteeing food security,” Mr Makuni said. He added that other water-intensive industries, such as manufacturing and mining, also relied on effective water management in maintaining sustainable operations. “By exposing these sectors to detailed insights on water use, our e-M2M solution supports conservation efforts and drives significant cost savings,” Mr Makuni said, stressing that the solution was not limited to one industry. He added that efficient energy management was also a critical feature of the solution, allowing businesses to track and optimize their energy usage, reduce costs and contribute to a more sustainable environment. “In an economy, like many others in the region, where energy costs and supply issues still pose significant challenges to industries, the ability to monitor and manage energy consumption in real-time provides a competitive advantage and supports the creation of a resilient, efficient, and sustainable economy,” Mr Makuni said.

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, the country’s leading telecommunications and technology company, has won both the Best Overall Stand and Best ICT Exhibitor awards at the 2024 Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS). The accolades are a recognition of the cutting-edge technology Econet is providing to multiple sectors of the economy, including the key agricultural sector. This year Econet’s stand at ZAS features engaging and interactive digital displays of its current services, showcasing product use cases as well as offering sneak previews into the future. The displays feature immersive Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) capability demos, which visitors to the Show have been sampling and trying for themselves.

In addition, Econet has added a 3D Digital Billboard chronicling the company’s journey with its customers over the past 26 years. An Econet spokesman said this year’s Zimbabwe Agricultural Show’s theme: “Cultivating Prosperity: Growing Business. Innovating for Change. Nurturing Our Future,” sat well with the company’s commitment to leverage ICT to drive economic development and agricultural growth. Fungai Mandiveyi, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s Media and Corporate Affairs Executive, said the Best Overall Stand and Best ICT Exhibitor awards that the company won, were a testament to the company’s innovation culture. “We are grateful for the recognition, and believe it partly stems from our innovation culture as a business.  “Our stand this year showcases how our products and services are transforming agriculture and positively impacting the economy by enabling farmers to access real-time information, connect with markets and improve productivity through the appropriate use of technology,” he said. The Econet stand – which features a range of innovative products and services tailored for the agricultural sector, the financial services sector and insurance sector, among others – has been attracting thousands of visitors, including policy makers, industry leaders and farmers keen to learn how digital solutions can enhance their farming operations. The Zimbabwe Agricultural Show, one of the nation’s premier trade show, attracts thousands of exhibitors and visitors annually from various sectors, showcasing the best of Zimbabwe’s agriculture, manufacturing and technology industries.

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s ambitious nationwide network upgrade has begun to reap rewards, with customers across the country starting to notice a marked improvement in network service quality. Over the past two years, Econet has undertaken modernisation work on its mobile network infrastructure. The upgrade work has included the rollout of 5G technology, the accelerated upgrade of 3G sites to faster and enhanced LTE (4G) technology, and the deployment of new network sites in areas where there was previously sparse or no coverage. In Mashonaland East, customers have reported significant improvements in connectivity and call quality, thanks to the infrastructure upgrade work in the province. Customers have particularly credited the network modernisation work with transforming their digital experience in the province, delivering on the company’s commitment to deliver technology that improves the lives of people. Ms Tarisai Chokuposha, a businesswoman from Makaha in Mutoko, said Econet’s network upgrade had yielded tangible benefits in her business operations. “The new 4G technology is much faster and has simplified the process of ordering products from countries like Tanzania and South Africa for me, making my business operations better. “We are even using WhatsApp to sell to our customers, and so we are grateful to Econet for upgrading their network here.” Many Econet network users in the province have reported a significant improvement in their customer experience and a drastic reduction in connectivity issues.

Ms Sharon Marume, a resident from Wedza said: “The network is now very good. We can connect to our social media platforms without any challenges. It feels like a new era for us.” Ms Pauline Makuzunga, another customer from Mudzi in Mutoko, expressed her delight at the improved quality of service. “We are incredibly happy with what Econet has done here. One morning we just woke up and saw that LTE (4G) was now connecting on our phones. It was like a gift,” she said. Her comments highlight the welcome nature of the improvements, which have significantly enhanced the user experience. Dallen Mudzengerere, a tech-savvy user from Murehwa, commended the speed of the new network technology. “The network is now very fast, and we are enjoying every moment of it. It used to be quite a bit slow to connect, but now we connect ‘just like that’. This is what we needed.” His comments reflect a growing appreciation for the reliability and efficiency of the upgraded services. Besides Mashonaland East, Econet has invested significantly in upgrading its network infrastructure across the country to 4G, including upgrades major cities like Harare and Bulawayo, where it has also deployed the superfast 5G technology. The company deployed over 1 000 LTE (4G) base stations across the country, over the past year alone, underlining its commitment to continuously improving network quality and the overall customer experience.

ECONET Wireless Zimbabwe has reported significant growth in both data and voice usage, with increases of 74 percent and 46 percent respectively for the first quarter ending May 31, 2024, compared to the same period last year.
In its latest trading update, the technology and telecommunications firm said data and voice revenue now contributed 42 percent and 38 percent of the company’s total revenue respectively, a shift from 33 percent and 45 percent respectively in the first quarter of 2023.
“The marked growth in data usage underscores the need for sustained network expansion and upgrades to adequately meet the ever-increasing demand for mobile broadband and digital services,” the company stated.
“With the advent of 5G, IoT, and other cutting-edge technologies, the need for robust, agile, and future-proof network infrastructure has become more pressing than ever.”
During the quarter, Econet commissioned over 30 new sites across the country, enhancing network performance and quality of service. The company said it plans to continue its network modernization programme, extending coverage in urban, peri-urban, and rural areas.
“Increasing our 5G penetration is also a key initiative, with plans to commission additional 5G sites by the end of the financial year,” said the company.
To address the growing utilization of data services, Econet has added functionalities to its core network, transitioning to a cloud-based system that promises better service personalization to meet diverse customer needs.
However, it said it has faced significant challenges due to ongoing power cuts, leading to increased costs for backup power and investment in solar energy.
“Load shedding on the national power grid continues to negatively affect the business through reliance on costly backup power to maintain the requisite network uptime and meet quality of service standards.
“The business continues to invest in renewable energy sources like solar power,” it said.
Following the acquisition of FinTech businesses from EcoCash Holdings, Econet’s mobile money unit delivered a strong performance, driven by a growing active customer base and increased usage of its digital financial services.
The mobile money business saw active customers grow of 189 percent, compared to the first quarter of the prior year, with international remittance values increasing by 265 percent.
EcoCash has also continued its partnerships with Mobile Transfer Agencies from various source markets to terminate into the EcoCash wallet, leveraging its distribution network for customers to access funds. This is expected to drive further growth in remittance values in the coming period.
The synergies between Econet’s digital insurance platforms and mobile money ecosystem have led to increased adoption and cross-selling opportunities.
The life insurance business recorded a 14.2 percent growth in premiums against the last quarter, while Airtime Cover subscriptions under EcoSure exceeded 400,000 by the end of the quarter. Maisha Health Fund saw a 5.5 percent growth in gross premiums compared to the prior period.
Moovah, Econet’s short-term insurance business, recently introduced mobile phone insurance, reinforcing its position as a pioneering leader in the market and reaffirming its commitment to innovation and responsiveness to customer needs.
“We remain dedicated to expanding our offerings and focusing on customer insights to provide comprehensive and tailored insurance solutions, enabled by the Group’s capacity to develop agile products,” said the company.
In the quarter ended May 31, 2024, Econet declared and paid an interim dividend of 0.26 US cents per share.
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Analysts and business leaders alike have hailed the marathon as a key driver of economic activity, attracting an influx of both local and international participants, spectators, and tourists.
The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon which has grown to become one of the top events on the Zimbabwe sporting calendar has continued to receive rave reviews ahead of the 16th edition of the competition – which will take place in the scenic resort town on July 7.
With its growing economic significance, the international marathon – held every winter amidst the majestic backdrop of the iconic Victoria Falls – has grown to become a catalyst for economic growth, as it draws local and global participation and attention.
Analysts and business leaders alike have hailed the marathon as a key driver of economic activity, attracting an influx of both local and international participants, spectators, and tourists.
The event has bolstered the profile of the Victoria Falls as a global tourist destination and also contributed significantly to the local economy.
“The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon is growing to be a significant contributor to Zimbabwe’s national vision of creating a multi-billion-dollar tourism economy,” said international business expert Macdonald Ndovi.
He added that the event, popularly referenced as Africa’s Number 1 Marathon, is a strategic investment in Zimbabwe’s future, propelling economic growth and solidifying Victoria Falls as a world-class tourist destination.
The marathon, which is this year expected to attract more than 5 500 runners from around the world, is expected to increase spending on accommodation, food, transportation, and other goods and services in Victoria Falls.
This influx of tourists provides a much-needed boost to the local hospitality industry, with hotels, lodges, and guesthouses experiencing high occupancy rates during the event.
“The Victoria Falls Marathon has become an important event in Zimbabwe’s sporting calendar, attracting both elite athletes and recreational runners looking to experience a memorable race in a breathtaking setting,” said tourism expert and researcher Charles Mavhunga.
“The event serves as a platform for promoting the tourism industry in Zimbabwe and a major driver of tourism and economic activity in the region.”
As the marathon enters its 16th year and continues to grow, it is expected to offer even more opportunities for local businesses to showcase their products and services to a broader audience.
An increase in demand for services in the resort town during the marathon generates direct revenue and helps promote business activities in the town and surrounding areas.
“The positive publicity generated by the Victoria Falls Marathon helps raise the profile of Victoria Falls, leading to increased interest in the region from potential visitors who may not have been aware of the tourist attractions offered by Victoria Falls, thus contributing to the long-term growth of tourism revenue for Zimbabwe’s economy,” Mavhunga added.
Local entrepreneurs and small businesses are among the biggest beneficiaries of the marathon.
From vendors selling crafts and food to service providers offering guided tours and transport, the event provides a platform for local enterprises to thrive.
“The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon is a golden opportunity for local businesses,” said Nyasha Mandizvidza, a market analyst.
“It enables small-scale entrepreneurs to tap into a larger market, driving sales and expanding their customer base. This event is a lifeline for many, promoting economic inclusivity and community growth.”

ECONET Wireless Zimbabwe has reported significant growth in both data and voice usage, with increases of 74 percent and 46 percent respectively for the first quarter ending May 31, 2024, compared to the same period last year.
In its latest trading update, the technology and telecommunications firm said data and voice revenue now contributed 42 percent and 38 percent of the company’s total revenue respectively, a shift from 33 percent and 45 percent respectively in the first quarter of 2023.
“The marked growth in data usage underscores the need for sustained network expansion and upgrades to adequately meet the ever-increasing demand for mobile broadband and digital services,” the company stated.
“With the advent of 5G, IoT, and other cutting-edge technologies, the need for robust, agile, and future-proof network infrastructure has become more pressing than ever.”
During the quarter, Econet commissioned over 30 new sites across the country, enhancing network performance and quality of service. The company said it plans to continue its network modernization programme, extending coverage in urban, peri-urban, and rural areas.
“Increasing our 5G penetration is also a key initiative, with plans to commission additional 5G sites by the end of the financial year,” said the company.
To address the growing utilization of data services, Econet has added functionalities to its core network, transitioning to a cloud-based system that promises better service personalization to meet diverse customer needs.
However, it said it has faced significant challenges due to ongoing power cuts, leading to increased costs for backup power and investment in solar energy.
“Load shedding on the national power grid continues to negatively affect the business through reliance on costly backup power to maintain the requisite network uptime and meet quality of service standards.
“The business continues to invest in renewable energy sources like solar power,” it said.
Following the acquisition of FinTech businesses from EcoCash Holdings, Econet’s mobile money unit delivered a strong performance, driven by a growing active customer base and increased usage of its digital financial services.
The mobile money business saw active customers grow of 189 percent, compared to the first quarter of the prior year, with international remittance values increasing by 265 percent.
EcoCash has also continued its partnerships with Mobile Transfer Agencies from various source markets to terminate into the EcoCash wallet, leveraging its distribution network for customers to access funds. This is expected to drive further growth in remittance values in the coming period.
The synergies between Econet’s digital insurance platforms and mobile money ecosystem have led to increased adoption and cross-selling opportunities.
The life insurance business recorded a 14.2 percent growth in premiums against the last quarter, while Airtime Cover subscriptions under EcoSure exceeded 400,000 by the end of the quarter. Maisha Health Fund saw a 5.5 percent growth in gross premiums compared to the prior period.
Moovah, Econet’s short-term insurance business, recently introduced mobile phone insurance, reinforcing its position as a pioneering leader in the market and reaffirming its commitment to innovation and responsiveness to customer needs.
“We remain dedicated to expanding our offerings and focusing on customer insights to provide comprehensive and tailored insurance solutions, enabled by the Group’s capacity to develop agile products,” said the company.
In the quarter ended May 31, 2024, Econet declared and paid an interim dividend of 0.26 US cents per share.
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COLLEN Ann Rowe (50) based in Saudi Arabia, is on cloud nine as she is participating for the first time at the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon which had eluded her since 2007.
A teacher by profession, Rowe, who is accompanied by her daughter Kelli Ann Rowe (20) and her 73-year-old mother Ina Johanna Cochran, said a combination of factors including commitment at work as the marathon would fall during the school term where she was teaching, and relocation to other places made her fail to register for the marathon.
She has done a number of marathons before in Colombia, where she was once based, China and South Africa.
Rowe and her daughter Kelli are running the 21.5km half marathon at the 2024 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon while her mother Cochran who is based in Durban, South Africa, is accompanying them for support. Rowe is using the event as a birthday celebration for herself after turning 50 recently.
“The Victoria Falls Marathon has been on my bucket list since 2007 and I am happy that this time I am here for it,” said Rowe after collecting her badge.
He commended Victoria Falls’ hospitality.
“I currently live in Saudi Arabia. I am here to do the half marathon and I had wanted to do this race since 2007 when I first heard about it but it never worked. So, finally this year is my year and I have been able to bring my mom and my daughter and they are very excited to be finally visiting Victoria Falls.
“I am school teacher so it would happen when schools are open or when I am travelling. I just turned 50 and so I decided I should come celebrate here. It is lovely here and everybody has been so friendly and welcome. I have done a couple of races like the national half marathon in South Africa where I used to live, and I have done races in Colombia and China,” she said.
Her daughter Kelli who is based in Spain said she was excited to be in Victoria Falls.
“It’s very important for me to be here because my mother is a runner and she has been dreaming of this race since when I was very little. So I am joining her in this race. I have done a 10km before and that’s furthest I have ever run, so I am doing 21.5km this time and we will see how it goes. I am very excited to be here, Victoria Falls is beautiful and the people are very kind. Everyone is loving, we have been here a day and so far its been very beautiful,” she said.
Cochran is here to support her daughter and granddaughter.
“I am from Hilcrest, Durban in South Africa. I had never been to Victoria Falls so my daughter said we should come. I love this country, it is clean and unbelievably wonderful. I am not running but will be supporting my daughter and granddaughter,” she said.