BTO endorses Beyond 40 Walk
staff writer | Thursday August 6, 2026 17:31
The national wellness initiative, organised by TM Media Consultancy, will take place on September 5, 2026, at the Three Dikgosi Monument in Gaborone. BTO acting chief executive officer, Justice Ofentse, said the organisation was proud to support an initiative that aligns with its mandate of promoting Botswana as a destination for leisure, recreation, and domestic tourism. 'The organisation recognises the important role that wellness, healthy lifestyles, and community-based activities play in enhancing the attractiveness and livability of destinations. We note that the event seeks to promote physical well-being whilst showcasing some of Gaborone's notable attractions and public spaces, including the Three Dikgosi Monument,” Ofentse said. 'This aligns with BTO's mandate of promoting Botswana as a destination for leisure, recreation, and domestic tourism, whilst encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore and appreciate the country's tourism offerings. 'BTO commends the organisers for developing an initiative that encourages active participation among adults and fosters greater appreciation of Gaborone's urban tourism assets. We are confident that the event will contribute positively to destination awareness and support efforts aimed at positioning the capital city as a vibrant centre for wellness, recreation, and tourism,” he added. The organisers welcomed the endorsement, describing it as an important milestone for the event. Preparations for the inaugural walk continue to gather momentum, with several organisations coming on board to support the national wellness initiative. Diagnofirm Medical Laboratories has joined the initiative as the Official Health Screening Partner. UrbanBetter has joined as the Air Quality Control Partner and will monitor air quality during the event, ensuring participants receive timely information on environmental conditions that may affect their health and well-being. The Society for Road Safety Ambassadors will provide marshal services along the walk route, helping to ensure the safety and smooth movement of participants throughout the event. The organisers have also welcomed Exclusive Human Capital Consultancy and EMTyre Specialist, both of whom have pledged their support towards the successful delivery of the inaugural walk. These organisations join Boitekanelo College, which became the first corporate partner to support the Beyond 40 Walk, demonstrating its commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and active ageing. Registration for the Beyond 40: Stride by Stride Walk is ongoing, with participants able to choose from 2.5 kilometres, five kilometres, or 10km distances according to their fitness level and preference. Walkers may register for P120, which includes a walk bib, hydration, a finisher's medal and participation in any of the three distances. Those opting for the P250 package will receive all of the above, together with an official event T-shirt. The walk will be led by the Chief Walker, the Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Moeti Mohwasa. Confirmed VIP walkers also include the Assistant Minister of Health, Honourable Lawrence Ookeditse, the Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Dr Edwin Dikoloti, and the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Botswana, His Excellency Batiraishe Henry Mukonoweshuro, among other distinguished guests. Held under the theme 'Every Step Towards Health and Wellness', the Beyond 40: Stride by Stride Walk seeks to encourage adults aged 40 years and above to embrace regular physical activity, healthy living and preventive healthcare whilst fostering community engagement and active ageing.