With just weeks to go before the 2025 ABSA Kids Marathon, organisers say they are thrilled by the momentum the event is gaining. The annual run, set for April 26 at the iconic Three Dikgosi Monument in Gaborone’s Central Business District, is already at 85 percent of its target registration, according to co-founder Moagi Madisa.
“We’re happy with how things are progressing. We’ve already registered more than 1,300 participants out of our 1,600 target,” Madisa told this publication. “Our plea to parents is to register their children on time. We want everyone to be part of what will be our biggest and best edition yet.”
The marathon, now a staple on Botswana’s fitness calendar for children, will this year run under the theme “Forever Young and Active.” Organisers say the message goes beyond physical activity—it’s also about mental agility and lifelong healthy habits.
“It’s a call to encourage children to embrace fitness and health from a young age,” Madisa explained. “We want to instill a mindset of confidence and vitality. Youthfulness is about energy and action—whether at school, at home, or at play.”
Race packs are already being collected by registered participants. Each pack includes a drawstring bag, race number, snacks, and a running T-shirt. The registration fee is P250.
Madisa hinted at “a lot of surprises” in store, calling this year’s event “one not to miss.”
A safe space to run
With safety and enjoyment as top priorities, organisers have begun laying out the race route and logistics.
“All we want is to host complaints and injury-free event,” said Madisa. “We are working hard to ensure a safe and secure space for the kids.”
A new highlight this year is a poll allowing participants to vote for their favorite local artist to perform on race day. “We are putting the power in the hands of the kids,” Madisa said. “We believe every story matters.”
Another exciting twist: the 13–16 age category will feature special incentives for the top 10 finishers. Details are being kept under wraps for now. “We are not revealing anything yet,” Madisa said. “But it’s something special, and we’re doing it with ABSA Bank to reward excellence.”
Nationwide Momentum
The build-up to race day has included a nationwide activation campaign, wrapping up this Saturday at ABSA’s head office in Gaborone. Olympic sprinter Isaac Makwala, recently named the event’s official ambassador, will headline the final activation.
The bank, which recently renewed its sponsorship for three more years—valued at P1.95 million—has fully backed the initiative. Makwala’s involvement has elevated the marathon’s status.
“We are very happy with the turnout and response we’ve received at activations across the country since January,” said Madisa. “We’ve been to Maun, Jwaneng, Palapye, Francistown, and now Gaborone. In total, about 5,000 children have taken part.”
But the event is about more than just running. “This is a major boost to the next generation,” Madisa emphasised. “Alongside their parents and guardians, children are also drilled on financial literacy, mental health, and general fitness. The teamwork with parents has been a key catalyst to this success.”
Final countdown
With the Easter holidays approaching, the organising team expects to close registration soon. Madisa urged those who haven’t signed up to act quickly.
“We don’t want anyone to miss out,” he said. “This year’s event is not just a race—it’s a movement. It’s about building strong, confident, and healthy kids for the future.”
With enthusiasm rising and final preparations underway, the 2025 ABSA Kids Marathon is shaping up to be another unforgettable celebration—one that promises to leave young runners and their families inspired well beyond the finish line.
