By Wallace Mawire
The Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa (ZAOGA) Forward in Faith Ministries International (FIFMI) says its annual Ezekiel H. Guti Legacy Walkathon is gaining momentum, with rising participation and improved organizational standards marking the 2026 edition.
Speaking at the event held on May 2 at Grange Christian Primary School in Harare, Presiding Bishop Dr. Joe Guti—son of the late founder Ezekiel Handinawangu Guti—said the commemorative gathering continues to grow in both scale and impact.
“This year, the numbers are increasing, and even the standards have improved. We appreciate the organizing team,” he said.
The walkathon, held annually around May 5 to mark Archbishop Guti’s birth in 1923, celebrates his century-long life and decades of ministry. Guti, who died in July 2023 aged 100, founded ZAOGA and built a global Pentecostal movement spanning churches, schools, and a university.
Dr. Guti said the event is not only a tribute but also a platform to promote moral and social transformation.
“This day reminds people that it is possible to live a life that fears God—free from drugs, abuse, and negative influences such as cyberbullying,” he said, describing his father as a lasting role model.
He added that the church continues to play a role in addressing societal challenges, including drug and substance abuse and gender-based violence, while contributing to national development.
Organizers say the event has evolved significantly over the years. Initially featuring shorter distances of 2.5km and 5km, it later expanded to 10km and now includes a half marathon and a newly introduced 21km “Legacy Walk.”
Courage Mashavave, Chairman of the Ezekiel H. Guti Legacy Day, said the 2026 edition exceeded expectations.
“We are very grateful. Next year will be bigger and better,” he said, highlighting strong sponsor support and growing public interest.
Beyond the races, the event included aerobics sessions, exhibitions, food stalls, and evangelism activities, with some attendees committing their lives to Christianity.
Mashavave described the gathering as one of Harare’s leading community fitness and faith events, inviting broader participation in future editions.
“This is now a premier walkathon and half marathon event in Harare—one you don’t want to miss,” he said, adding that organizers plan to announce routes and dates earlier and introduce medals for all participants.
The walkathon forms part of a broader legacy initiative honoring Archbishop Guti’s 75 years of continuous gospel preaching and his emphasis on healthy living. Alongside the sporting activities, a gospel musical show featuring over 100 artists also recorded strong attendance this year.
Organizers say the event’s theme—“Walking the Legacy, Living the Wellness”—continues to resonate, blending faith, fitness, and community engagement.
