EduMove Race launched

The EduMove Race, a community-driven walk, run and cycle event, will host its first edition on 31 January.

It will start and finish at CycleTec, 324 Sam Nujoma Drive, in Windhoek. A virtual participation option is also available.

The EduMove Race is a three-part series. The running distances are 21km, 15km, 10km or 5km. The walking distances are 10km and 5km and the cycling distances are 60km and 20km.

The second race is scheduled for 27 February and will be a night race while the third race will take place on 21 March.

Founder and event organiser Hetty Nangolo-Nelumbu says the event brings people together for fitness, fun and social impact. She says the event is a movement focused on encouraging active lifestyles while creating meaningful change in education for vulnerable children in Namibia.

“Participants will take part in a timed social race where they can choose to walk, run or cycle over various distances. The atmosphere will be relaxed, inclusive and family-friendly. Everyone who finishes receives a finisher’s medal, and the day will be filled with positive energy, community spirit and purpose,” Nangolo-Nelumbu adds.

She says the event is aimed at promoting health, wellness and unity while raising support for children in rural areas and informal settlements, adding that by hosting the event, they aim to donate school bags, shoes, stationery and other essential learning materials to pupils in the Zambezi region.

Nangolo-Nelumbu says education remains the strongest pathway out of poverty and by supporting them, we are investing directly in Namibia’s future.

“Education is one of the greatest equalisers. Namibia is a young country that still experiences deep inequalities as a result of our past, as well as challenges such as poor implementation of child maintenance systems. These realities leave many children vulnerable. We focus on children in rural communities and informal settlements because they are often the most disadvantaged when it comes to access to basic educational resources,” she adds.

Nangolo-Nelumbu urges the public to attend because this is an opportunity to make a difference while improving your health. She says the public can participate, volunteer, sponsor a child, share the event or simply come and support.

“EduMove represents hope, solidarity and collective responsibility. It shows that Namibians can come together to uplift one another. It promotes a culture of giving back, healthy living and social awareness. This event reflects our ubuntu spirit and commitment to nation building,” she says.

Nangolo-Nelumbu notes that EduMove was inspired by her passion for sport and community development.

“As someone actively involved in running and cycling, I saw the potential to use these platforms to drive social impact. The idea grew from wanting to merge fitness with purpose and create something that gives back to society. Everyone is welcome. Families, children, pensioners, athletes, beginners and pet owners with leashed dogs. You do not need to be a professional athlete. This is a social race,” she says.

The event is hosted by Namibian Traders. They have been organising community races on a monthly basis with one core purpose – to give back. Their key focus area has been supporting children born with congenital heart defects in Namibia.

“Our heart has always been to serve the community and support organisations making a difference in Namibia. While we have achieved a lot, we recognise it is still a drop in the ocean. We would love to do more. Securing consistent sponsorship to cover operational costs remains a challenge, but we continue with what we have,” Nangolo-Nelumbu says.

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