FNB Zambia Hosts 2024 Kopala Run

…The event promotes health and wellness with record participation

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 – (22-07-2024) – The FNB Zambia successfully hosted the FNB Kopala Run, the largest running event on the Copperbelt, on Saturday, July 20.

With over 4,000 runners from diverse communities across the country participating, the event received strong support from government officials, local authorities, corporate sponsors, and local communities, highlighting the importance of health and wellness through sport.

Guest of Honour, Hon. Elvis Nkandu, Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, underscored the government’s commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle amid rising non-communicable diseases globally.

“Today’s races have showcased our collective commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle. With non-communicable diseases on the rise globally, this investment in promoting health and fitness is crucial in encouraging regular exercise through sport,” he affirmed.

He also commended FNB Zambia for increasing the number of prizes and prize amounts, making them the highest among similar events.

FNB Zambia CEO, Ms. Kapumpe Chola, expressed gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for the event’s success.

“We are inspired by the dedication shown by all participants, from elite athletes to recreational runners, who joined us for the 2024 FNB Kopala Run. This event not only promotes health and wellness but also fosters community engagement and economic activity in Kitwe and across the Copperbelt,” she said.

“We congratulate the winners in the different race categories for their well-deserved victories. This year, we were deliberate about investing more by increasing the value and number of winners and being inclusive by increasing the winning categories, which extended to wheelchair, children, and other age categories. This is our way of demonstrating our commitment to the sport and fitness agenda.”

Chola also thanked several key partners, including Gold partners MTN Mobile Money, Coca-Cola Beverages Zambia, and the Garden Court Hotel, Kitwe, who provided financial and material support for the event. Bronze Partners Sanlam Life Assurance, GM Legal Practitioners, Onelife Assurance, and 260 Brands, along with in-kind sponsors Java Foods and Zambian Breweries, enhanced participant experience and logistical support.

The 2024 FNB Kopala Run not only promoted physical activity but also fostered community spirit and economic growth in Kitwe.

FNB Zambia looks forward to further expanding the event in the coming years, continuing to promote health, wellness, and community engagement across Zambia.