The Kansanshi Marathon is rapidly becoming one of Solwezi’s most impactful community initiatives. What began as a sporting event has evolved into a powerful platform promoting healthier lifestyles, inclusion and economic growth.

As cases of hypertension, diabetes and stroke continue to affect many communities, Kansanshi Mining PLC and First Quantum Minerals (FQM) are using sport and wellness programmes to encourage preventative healthcare and active living.

Kansanshi Mining PLC Public Relations Manager Ryan Ellis, the visionary behind the marathon and several sporting initiatives, says the transformation in Solwezi’s fitness culture is already visible. “When I’d drive through Lusaka, I’d see people running as early as four and five in the morning. Then I’d get back to Solwezi and not see anyone doing that. It’s amazing to see these initiatives bringing tangible change because now I see people running all the time,” Ellis said.

The marathon continues to promote accessibility and inclusion, with this year’s event recording increased participation from persons living with disabilities. FQM provided customised wheelchairs to support differently abled participants, allowing them to use the same route as every other runner and reinforcing the importance of equal participation.

Justin Bwalya, Physiotherapist and Fitness and Rehabilitation Coordinator at Kansanshi Mine, led aerobics and warm up sessions during the marathon while emphasising the importance of physical wellness.

“FQM is encouraging healthier lifestyles while making physical wellbeing more accessible to ordinary community members through free aerobics sessions, fitness awareness programmes and inclusive sporting activities,” Bwalya explained.

The marathon is also creating significant economic activity within Solwezi. Local businesses, hospitality providers and vendors continue to benefit from the increased number of visitors attending the event.

Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Elvis Nkandu praised the initiative for boosting tourism and economic activity in the region.

“Beyond the race, this marathon has become an economic and tourism anchor for Solwezi. Accommodation is fully booked and local businesses are thriving. That is sports and economics at work,” Nkandu said.

This year’s marathon attracted an impressive 2,500 runners, highlighting how the initiative has grown into a nationally recognised event.

Ellis also highlighted FQM’s wider contribution to Zambia’s development through tax contributions, infrastructure investment and corporate social responsibility projects. He noted that the company invested $24 million in corporate social investment programmes and contributed half of the $4 million Mitech dual carriageway construction project in partnership with the Government of Zambia.

From promoting wellness and accessibility to supporting local businesses and infrastructure development, the Kansanshi Marathon is steadily becoming a symbol of a healthier, more inclusive and economically vibrant community.

In Solwezi, the marathon is proving that sport can do far more than entertain. It can inspire lasting change.