Vodacom Brings Excitement to Kili Marathon

Vodacom Tanzania proudly announced today that it will be sponsoring the Kilimanjaro 5km Fun Run, which will take place on March 2, 2008 in Moshi. As title sponsors of the event, it will be known as the 5Km Vodacom Fun Run.

Addressing the media, Ephraim Mafuru, Vodacom Tanzania’s Head of Sponsorships and Communications said that Vodacom is thrilled to be on board of the Kilimanjaro Marathon and in particular the 5km Fun Run.

“We are very excited to be associated with the Kilimanjaro Marathon, which is today one of the biggest annual sporting events in Tanzania and the entire region. It attracts thousands of participants both local and international. But more importantly, it stretches beyond mere numbers and reaches into the hearts of marathon lovers worldwide.”

“Over the years, Vodacom Tanzania together with the nation, we have witnessed the spectacular growth of this event and we are so thrilled for the opportunity to get on board and be a part of it, but more importantly to add our support to national athletes and help them experience the excitement of an international sporting event,” he added.

Mr. Mafuru pointed out that some of the proceeds from the Fun Run go to charity, thus making it a worthy event - as Vodacom Tanzania truly believes in giving back to the community and sharing its success with the people.

“Corporate social responsibility is very important to Vodacom, which is one more reason why we are proud to sponsor the 5km Fun Run.”

Vodacom has helped develop and promote many different sports in Tanzania, including cycling, golf, cricket and the Vodacom Premier League, but this is the first time it is lending its support to an internationally recognized marathon.

The Kilimanjaro Marathon has quickly grown to become one of the biggest and most exciting events held in the East African region.

“As part of our regional strategy it is a great opportunity to reward and get closer to our customers and bring some excitement to the area. Furthermore, the marathon is a huge tourism magnet and thus it gives us a chance to support the government in its initiatives to promote sports as well as tourism,” said Mr. Mafuru.

“The marathon attracts many runners from all over the world, from East Africa to Sweden to Australia and therefore it is a great opportunity to showcase our country’s natural beauty. This in turn will help promote and empower the community, both economically and socially.”

Mr. Mafuru also stressed that tourism and communications go hand in hand, therefore as leaders in mobile communications in Tanzania, Vodacom wants to help facilitate communications for all the participants and keep them connected to their loved ones during their stay in the country.

He went to say that Vodacom has confidence in the experience of the organizers of the event as well as the other sponsors including TBL and ATC among others.

“We recognize and respect their contribution to the development of the sport.”

In conclusion, Mr. Mafuru said that, “Vodacom wants to ensure that everyone participates in this event and we promise to make it bigger, better and even more fun than ever before! So whether you want to run or stroll, we hope to see you there.