By Tendai Keith Guvamombe
HARARE, Zimbabwe — Telecommunications operator NetOne Cellular (Pvt) Ltd has officially announced that it will not be partnering with event organiser Albun Fitness for the upcoming 2026 edition of the Honde Valley Marathon.
The announcement was made in an official media statement released by the mobile network operator’s Public Relations Office, based at Kopje Plaza in Harare.
The state-owned mobile network provider, which previously served as a primary sponsor and corporate partner for the event, moved to clarify its position regarding the partnership ahead of the annual marathon. Despite deciding not to enter into a formal sponsorship agreement for the 2026 race, NetOne struck a warm and constructive tone toward the event organizers.
In its statement, NetOne expressed gratitude to Albun Fitness—founded by former Zimbabwean football star Alois Bunjira—for the ongoing engagements and the opportunity to evaluate collaborative possibilities surrounding the marathon.
”We appreciate Albun Fitness for the engagement and the opportunity to explore collaboration around the event,” the company stated, adding that it retains a cordial corporate relationship with the fitness outfit.
NetOne also extended its best wishes to the organisers and participants for a successful event. The Honde Valley Marathon, held in the scenic Eastern Highlands of Manicaland, has grown into a major fixture on Zimbabwe’s sporting calendar, drawing over a thousand elite and amateur runners to promote health, wellness, and local rural tourism.
