The Walkers Social Club Launches in Style with 22.45km Charity Walk and Hospital Donation

In a vibrant display of community spirit and wellness advocacy, The Walkers Social Club officially launched over the weekend with a 22.45-kilometer fun walk and a generous donation of medical supplies to Thyolo District Hospital. The group, composed of over 150 diverse professionals, has quickly become a symbol of how fitness and philanthropy can walk hand-in-hand in modern Malawian society.

A Morning of Movement and Purpose

As early as 6 a.m., members gathered at Thyolo District Hospital, lacing up their shoes with a shared sense of purpose. The route stretched from the hospital to Makwasa—a challenging but invigorating 22.45-kilometer journey that put both stamina and solidarity to the test.

With a rescue vehicle trailing the group, those who found the distance too demanding were able to hop in and ride to the finish line. Yet, many pushed through, completing the full trek and embodying the club’s commitment to perseverance and personal achievement.

Among the participants were two young walkers under the age of 12, whose involvement highlighted the inclusive and family-friendly nature of the initiative. Laughter, encouragement, and the rhythm of footsteps set the tone for a morning that was as much about social bonding as it was about physical health.

More Than Just Steps: A Dual Mission

According to The Walkers Social Club President, Felix Wisdom Banda, the group’s vision extends far beyond weekend exercise. “The initiative blends fitness and charity,” Banda explained. “After the walk, we made a donation to Thyolo Hospital, ensuring that our efforts benefit the community in a tangible way.”

This two-pronged approach—promoting wellness while supporting public health infrastructure—reflects a growing trend among civic-minded organizations aiming to address both individual and collective well-being.

Banda emphasized that the club is helping to write a new chapter in Malawi’s culture of wellness, one where health consciousness and social responsibility are inextricably linked.

Celebration and Recognition

The walk culminated in an official launch ceremony held at the Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHES), where the energetic sounds of the popular Mighty Mibawa Band lifted spirits and celebrated the day’s achievements.

Rachel Mijiga, Vice Chairperson of Capestars and Guest of Honour at the event, praised The Walkers for their innovative approach to community engagement. In a show of support, Capestars contributed K5 million toward the launch and hospital donation.

“We are grateful for the support we get from The Walkers group for our homegrown brand Capestars,” Mijiga stated. “As they say, it takes a village to raise a child. Capestars has received that support, and as a brand we are very grateful. Hence, our contribution… to give back to society.”

National Ambitions and Local Impact

Professor Frank Taulo, patron of The Walkers, expressed pride in the group’s rapid growth and expanding footprint. What began as a local initiative has now spread to Lilongwe, Mzuzu, Zomba, Salima, and Mangochi—with ambitions to reach every district, including Likoma.

“Walking and physical exercise have now become a lifestyle,” Taulo noted. “We need to embrace this lifestyle so that we can be healthy mentally and physically while networking and offering each other business opportunities.”

This vision of holistic health—encompassing physical, mental, and economic wellness—resonates deeply in a post-pandemic era where community and connection have taken on renewed importance.

Voices from the Walk

For first-time participant Gerald Zamadunga, the experience was both enjoyable and inspiring. “I really enjoyed my time today,” he shared. “I will be taking part in the activities of this group, especially helping the communities and networking for business opportunities.”

Almateen Mussa, another member, reflected on the group’s humble beginnings and impressive growth. “This is awesome; we started humbly but now everyone wants to be part of this group because of the benefits of being physically fit and networking.”

Mussa, who works in logistics, pointed to the practical advantages of such gatherings—where casual conversations can lead to professional collaborations, and shared goals can turn into shared success.

A Model of Collaborative Support

The launch and donation were made possible through the support of several key partners, including National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc, First Capital Bank (FCB), NBS Bank, Nali Limited, and The Thomson and Barbra Mpinganjira Foundation, among others.

This broad base of sponsorship underscores the widespread appeal of The Walkers’ mission—and the recognition that investing in community health is investing in the nation’s future.

Looking Ahead: Every Saturday, Every Community

The Walkers meet every Saturday at 5 a.m., with routes determined democratically through member votes. This regular commitment ensures that fitness remains a consistent priority—and that the sense of community continues to strengthen week after week.

As the group expands, so too does its potential to make a difference: more walks, more donations, and more opportunities for Malawians to come together in the name of health and humanity.

Conclusion: Stepping Toward a Healthier Future

The launch of The Walkers Social Club was more than an event—it was a statement. It declared that wellness is not just a personal pursuit but a collective responsibility. That a simple walk can be a powerful act of charity. And that when people move together, they can move mountains.

In the words of Felix Wisdom Banda, “This initiative goes beyond personal wellbeing as it contributes to community development.” And as The Walkers continue to step forward, they do so with the certainty that every kilometer covered and every life touched brings Malawi one step closer to a healthier, more connected future.