Celebrating Zambia at 60 Years and 79th United Nations Anniversary with a Run

The early hours of 26 October 2024 saw over 2,500 people from all walks of life gather at Lusaka’s Showgrounds ready to run and walk for either 5km and 10km to celebrate Zambia’s 60th Independence and the 79th United Nations (UN) Day.  The Zambia@60 and SDGs Fun Run and Walk, put together jointly by UN in Zambia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia, symbolizing 60 years of partnership between the UN and Zambia, was also used to draw attention to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the collective journey by the UN and Zambia in ensuring a more inclusive and prosperous Zambia.

Participants started the morning in an energetic atmosphere as with upbeat aerobics, ready to show their commitment to both Zambia’s legacy and future. The Honourable Minister of Tourism Mr. Rodney Sikumba, MP, was the Guest of Honor. He was joined by the Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary (Administration) Mrs. Hope Kalabi Situmbeko and the UN Resident Coordinator Ms Beatrice Mutali and Members of the Diplomatic Corps with their families. Other participants included government officials, regular runners, women, youth, children and Persons with Disabilities, all representing the inclusive spirit of the SDGs and Zambia’s dedication to leaving no one behind. 

Soon after the aerobics and key announcements on Zambia and UN relations, independence and SDG messages had been given by the event’s Masters of Ceremonies, Ms Choolwe Changula (Lusaka Fitness Squad), Mr. Kafula Mwiche (Lusaka Fitness Squad) and Dr. Remmy Mukonka (UN Zambia), the Guest of Honor addressed the participants, expressing gratitude for their enthusiasm and flagged off the event. He led the way by participating in the run with Permanent Secretaries, UN Resident Coordinator and other dignitaries also getting on the routes. 

Each participant was clad in a vibrant T-shirt with a country flag of their choice or UN emblem fixed in front, demonstrating unity, inclusion of all countries in the world and collective dedication to the SDGs. The routes took them past key government offices and historical sites, UN offices and diplomatic missions. Families and friends ran and walked together as they chatted with new acquaintances. As participants stopped to refresh at water, juice and fruit points, they were treated to information on different SDGs for inspiration to act on the Global Goals. Several Persons with Disabilities, including wheelchair users, the hearing impaired and Persons with Albinism, fully participated and demonstrated resilience as they navigated the routes with joy. 

The UN Resident Coordinator noted the importance of the SDGs. “Let us remember that action on the 17 SDGs is now more urgent than ever before as we only have about six years to 2030. Whether it's ending poverty, ensuring quality education, promoting gender equality, or taking urgent action on climate change—every step we take today at institutional, or family level will go a long way in realizing the 17 Global Goals," said Ms Mutali.

As the participants crossed the finish line, there was a clear sense of unity and pride with each one receiving a medal.  The Guest of Honor, Senior Government officials, Members of the UN Country Team and sponsors presented some gender-balanced recognition medals to fastest finishers, the oldest and youngest participants, Persons with Disabilities, youth, adolescents and the most determined participants, among others. 

The event was open for anyone to participate with no fees charged. It was organized with financial and in-kind support from Standard Chartered Bank, Prudential Life Assurance Zambia, YESS Water (Acacia Beverages), Neelkanth Sarovar Premiere Lusaka, South Point Hospitals, and PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) LLP. Lusaka Fitness Squad and Choz Fitness served as event coordinator and fitness partner respectively.