The FNB Kazungula Bridge Marathon rose to new heights this weekend, drawing elite runners from Zambia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Mozambique in a powerful display of regional endurance all set against the backdrop of FNB Botswana’s 35-year milestone.
This year’s edition was more than a race. It formed part of the Bank’s 35-year legacy of sustained investment in community development, wellness, and economic participation.
Zimbabwean marathon specialist Isaac Mpofu once again stamped his authority on the 42km men’s race, crossing the line in 2:14:18 to claim the P50,000 winner’s prize.
A disciplined and consistent competitor, Mpofu said his preparation was deliberate.
“I am a marathon runner my preparations are always thorough. I am a full-season runner. I came here with the mission of finishing under 2 hours 50 seconds.”
This was his fifth appearance at Kazungula and his fourth victory overall, having won the previous three editions further entrenching his dominance on the course.
Zambia’s Elizabeth Mukoloma delivered a commanding performance in the women’s 42km race, clocking 2:38:09 to secure P50,000.
Returning stronger after finishing fourth in her previous outing, Mukoloma acknowledged both the challenge and her growth.
Beyond the podium finishes, the event injected visible momentum into the Kazungula local economy. Hospitality providers, transport operators and informal traders reported increased activity throughout race week.
“The road was challenging but I put in all the effort. It’s my second time at this marathon last time I was number four, which shows I have improved. I give thanks to the organisers, FNB Botswana and everyone behind me.”
Namibian athletes dominated the 21km contests. Lavina Haitope captured the women’s title in 1:13:44, earning P15,000, while Ezra Keter powered through the men’s race in 1:10:11, also taking home P15,000.
Their performances reinforced the marathon’s growing regional stature and competitiveness.
Beyond the podium finishes, the event injected visible momentum into the Kazungula local economy. Hospitality providers, transport operators and informal traders reported increased activity throughout race week.
One local taxi driver described the period as exceptionally busy.
“This past week I have been very busy transporting passengers who arrived for the marathon. It has been a profitable period for us,” he said.
The influx of athletes and supporters translated into tangible revenue streams, underlining the marathon’s role as a community economic lever.
FNB Botswana CEO Steven Lefentse Bogatsu framed the event within the Bank’s three-and-a-half-decade journey in the country.
“As we mark 35 years in Botswana, this marathon reflects the strength of our five-year partnership and our deliberate investment in initiatives that build resilience, stimulate local economies and bring communities together,” he said.
“Today was not just about elite performance. It was about impact on wellness, on small businesses, and on regional integration.”
With elite times, expanding international participation and measurable economic impact, the FNB Kazungula Bridge Marathon continues to mature into a flagship regional event one that mirrors FNB’s 35-year commitment to progress, endurance and shared prosperity.
