Wonderful Group Leads Marathon Drive
By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 (March 13, 2026) – The Wonderful Group of Companies has officially launched its flagship marathon initiative, designed to promote health, community engagement, and social responsibility across Zambia, while emphasizing the role of women, youth, and national development and integrating sports, culture, and wellness advocacy.
He said the company’s ceiling products meet about 10 percent of Zambia’s national demand, while exports account for 35 percent of revenue.
“Our products, ranging from ceiling solutions to other industrial goods, are produced in Zambia, demonstrating local manufacturing potential,” Mwamba said.
Mwamba highlighted key operations, including Marco Polo Cows, a leading African producer. The group also runs a 6,500-hectare plantation and adheres to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards.
He added that projects such as an ammonia plant, expected next year, and the first-ever production of Fosterate in Zambia reflect the company’s focus on innovation, health, and community development.
“These initiatives are part of our strategy to integrate innovation, health, and community development into our operations,” Mwamba said.
Nkandu said the company currently employs about 7,000 people, with plans to increase employment to around 10,000 as operations expand.
“The Wonderful Group of Companies has already created employment for about 7,000 people. With expansion, more than 1,000 additional jobs are expected, bringing the total to around 10,000,” Nkandu said.
He highlighted that most jobs are held by Zambian youth, demonstrating the impact of government policies that create a stable investment environment.
“These opportunities do not happen by accident. They result from a stable and enabling environment created by government to attract investment,” Nkandu said.
The minister said job creation is a key tool to reduce poverty and urged companies to embrace exports to strengthen the economy.
“We cannot grow our industries if we only produce for local consumption. We must also focus on exporting our products so that our economy continues to grow,” Nkandu said.
Nkandu added that the marathon promotes healthy living, unity, and social inclusion.
“Sport promotes unity, discipline, and healthy living. It also provides a platform for young people and communities to support positive initiatives,” he said.
He noted that the event empowers young people and women by offering visibility and participation opportunities.
Nkandu encouraged private-public partnerships to support youth and community development, calling on communities, development partners, and civil society organisations to support initiatives like this.
“Sports platforms such as this help young people interact, build confidence, and develop discipline, which are important for personal and national development,” Nkandu said.
He concluded by saying promoting sport and wellness contributes to a healthy, productive nation and strengthens unity and social cohesion. Nkandu then officially declared the Wonderful Marathon 2026 launched.
“In our vision, it is bigger and more meaningful. It is designed to impact the girl child, women, and all of Zambia,” Ms. Tanga said.
She explained that the marathon was structured to reflect intentional action and responsibility, uniting institutions, communities, and individuals into one visible movement.
Ms. Tanga said the two-day program leading up to the race includes a Kids’ Expo, allowing sponsors and partners to engage with the fitness community.
“This creates a space for visibility, activation, and meaningful connection before the race begins,” she said.
On race day, the marathon will celebrate both athletic achievement and community togetherness.
“This is not just a one-year initiative. It is designed to grow and strengthen over time. Together, we can build something that will endure and expand each year,” Ms. Tanga said.
She added that the marathon combines sports, culture, and community engagement, creating a transformative experience for participants, sponsors, and the wider public.
Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary Joe Kalusa said the province values the Wonderful Group’s contributions to Zambia’s development, noting that products such as cement and food support livelihoods and national growth.
Kalusa acknowledged a renowned music icon, popularly known as Mama Africa, for inspiring generations through her music. He added that the presence of distinguished guests at the marathon reflected strong cultural and social ties.
He emphasized the importance of proper planning and accurate route measurement to ensure participant safety and credibility.
“Marathons serve as platforms for sports tourism, attracting participants from across Zambia and abroad,” Bwalya said.
He also noted that the marathon identifies promising athletes and fosters national unity, as participants of all backgrounds compete together.
“When people are running, there are no divisions of nationality or background. Everyone runs together as participants in the same event,” he said.
Bwalya added that the event provides brand visibility for sponsors while supporting community development. He thanked the minister, National Sports Council, and the Wonderful Group for their support.
Katai Chola, President of the Lusaka Fitness Squad, described the marathon as “more than just an event—it is a movement” recognizing women’s achievements and promoting unity.
“Running has always symbolised progress. Every stride we take is a step toward a brighter future,” Chola said.
He said the initiative invests in the girl child, women, and communities, emphasizing their central role in building the nation.
Chola thanked the Wonderful Group for their commitment and urged participants to remember that every step is “for the girl child, for the woman, and for Zambia—together.”
Brian Bwembya, President of the Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM), highlighted the power of women and the role of unity in arts and society.
“As a man who was raised by a woman, I celebrate everything that women can do. My music has always centered on this theme,” Bwembya said.
He noted that entertainers face pressures while influencing fans and advocated for healthy living and social unity.
“I make this a call to action for all corporate entities to invest in health, wellness, and unity through the arts,” he said.
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