Joggers on the move launches 2026 Marathon to help power nkhwazi health centre

Malawi Exclusive

Lilongwe-based running group , Joggers on the Move (JOM) has announced the 2026 Marathon, bringing together runners, cyclists, fitness lovers, corporate teams and community partners.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mr Joab Frank Chakhaza, Chairperson of the 2026 JOM Marathon Organising Committee, said the race reflects JOM’s commitment to using sport for social impact.

“The JOM Marathon is more than a race. It is a movement that brings people together to solve real community challenges. This year, every step taken by our runners and cyclists will contribute towards bringing reliable solar power to Nkhwazi Health Centre, so that thousands of people can access better healthcare services,” said Chakhaza.

The group targets MWK 20 Million for solar installation at Nkhwazi Health Centre in Mchinji serving approximately 18,000 people in Mchinji.

Right now it operates without electricity. That means night deliveries by torchlight, medicine that risks spoiling, and care that stops when the sun sets.

To change that, JOM is aiming to raise MWK 20 million for a solar power installation. The project will help the clinic provide consistent, dignified healthcare to surrounding communities, day and night.

The 2026 JOM Marathon will kick off at 5:00 a.m. on Saturday, 8 August 2026, with all activities centered at Gateway Mall in Lilongwe. The event will wrap up at approximately 9:00 a.m.

Race categories include; Full Marathon– 42.2 kilometres

Half Marathon 21.1 kilometres, 10-kilometre race, 5-kilometre race, Cycling, and Aerobics.

The response has been strong and so far 300 people have already registered, and more than 500 participants are expected on race day.

The campaign has already received a major boost with Creck Hardware pledging MWK 10 million towards the solar installation.

This continues JOM’s tradition of turning fitness into community development.

Since 2019, the group has organized charity marathons to support health facilities and other causes.

In 2024, the JOM Marathon raised MWK 10 million for solar equipment at Matekenya Health Centre in Dowa.
In 2025, it raised MWK 16 million for solar electricity at Bema Health Centre in Dedza.

The 2026 event also opens doors for companies, organizations and individuals to support Nkhwazi Health Centre through cash contributions, in-kind donations, and sponsorship of marathon activities.

Supporting organizations will receive visibility through branding on race jerseys, banners, photobooths, event materials, and exhibition space during the marathon and awards ceremony.

Joggers on the Move is a Lilongwe-based professional and social running group founded in 2018. The group promotes healthy lifestyles, discipline, friendship, professional networking and community service. Through running, JOM continues to build healthier people and stronger communities.