FNBB Kickstarts the 2023 FNB Kazungula Bridge Marathon
Kasane, September 2022 – FNB Botswana returns to Kasane to launch the 2nd edition of the FNB Kazungula Bridge Marathon, scheduled to take place on 23 February 2023. The partnership was designed to promote sports tourism and help communities, in the greater Kasane region, rebound from the negative effects of Covid-19. Following the positive reception at the inaugural marathon, FNBB has renewed their partnership with the marathon organisers to the value of P 1.5 million.
Speaking at the launch, FNB Chief Executive Officer, Steven Lefentse Bogatsu thanked the dignitaries and people of Kasane for welcoming the Bank and its partners back to the area. “Our strategic partnership with the Kazungula Bridge Marathon organisation is an effort to promote sports tourism in Botswana and help boost the economy in Kasane and surrounding areas. The partnership aligns with FNBB’s shared value philosophy that ensures that the Bank’s economic and community contribution provides collective value and upliftment to its stakeholders.” Bogatsu said.
Bogatsu also stated that the Bank was cognisant of the unfortunate incidents that some participants had to go through last year, such as the shortage of water and late disbursement of prize money. This is why the Bank has increased the sponsorship money by P 500 000 from P1 000 000 to P 1 500 000 in 2023 to give those involved a better experience. This will be insured through working with various brands to revive the local sports tourism industry as well as the overall logistics management involved to make sure visitors and runners have an exciting experience.
The first marathon gathered runners and visitors from all over Southern Africa and gave them a one-of-a-kind cross-border experience as they enjoyed scenic views in Kasane and Zambia. Runners can look forward to those same views in addition to a more elevated experience.
In keeping with the revived excitement, the marathon brought to the region, FNBB invited more partners to contribute as a way of further championing not only the tourism sector but also the sports industry in Botswana.
“Support for sports development is key to FNBB. We encourage more partners in this collaborative effort as a way to give our country more international presence and prestige around our growing sporting talent. In addition, the support we all offer is also a show of national pride in the actual Kazungula Bridge. It is a feat of engineering and structural
beauty that also stands as a symbol of connections. It is testament to Botswana’s connected communities locally and regionally, and our value of Botho.” Stated Bogatsu.
Joining FNB to kickstart the renewed partnership was Minister of Justice and Area MP, Hon. Machana Ronald Shamukuni, Customary Court President, Kgosi Thuso Wasetso of Kasane, Councillor for Mabele, Kavimba & Kachikau, Hon. Chimney Mululwani and various community members from Kasane, all of whom graciously welcomed and hosted the Bank.
The Bank looks forward to engaging with runners at the activations leading up to the marathon and finally on the big day in February 2023.
