MICHAEL MIYOBA
Lusaka
ACCESS Bank are the platinum sponsors of the inaugural Pensioners Marathon after pouring K450,000 into the competition set for July 20 in Lusaka.
Speaking during the unveiling of the sponsorship in Lusaka yesterday, Access Bank managing director Iheanyi Nwogu said they decided to sponsor the marathon because the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) plays a critical role in Zambia’s social and economic framework.
“As the country’s mandatory social security institution, it provides income security for formal sector commitment is reflected in the workers, ensuring that citizens can retire with dignity and stability. The NAPSA Pensioners Marathon is a natural extension of this mandate.
It highlights the importance of retirement preparedness while promoting healthy living, social connection and overall wellbeing,” Nwogu said.
“It reminds us that retirement is not only about financial security, but also about living a full and active life. These values strongly align with Access Bank’s purpose.
As Africa’s gateway to the world, we are committed to driving growth while delivering positive impact in the communities we serve. We believe banking should empower people, strengthen communities and support inclusive progress.” He said NAPSA’s initiatives that Access Bank supports across education, entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, youth development, financial literacy, environmental sustainability and community well-being.
“It is therefore fitting that we stand with NAPSA in support of an initiative that promotes wellness, celebrates active ageing and honours the contributions of pensioners to our society. It is my pleasure to announce that Access Bank Zambia will support the 2026 Napsa Pensioners Marathon as a Platinum Sponsor with a contribution of K450,000,” Nwogu said.
And NAPSA director general Muyangwa Muyangwa said the contribution from Access Bank is a strong vote of confidence in the vision behind the Pensioners Marathon initiative and demonstrates the bank’s commitment to supporting programmes that positively impact communities.
“The Pensioners Marathon was conceived as a platform that promotes healthy living, social inclusion, community engagement and awareness of the importance of social security. Under the theme “Your health is your wealth”, the marathon seeks to inspire individuals and communities to embrace healthier lifestyles while fostering conversations around f inancial security and retirement preparedness,” Muyangwa said.
“As an institution mandated to provide social security, we understand that a secure future begins with healthy and productive citizens. Wellness and social protection are closely linked and it is for this reason that we continue to invest in initiatives that promote both.”
He said Access Bank has been a valued strategic partner of Napsa, having collaborated with them in programmes aimed at supporting economic growth and promoting financial inclusion, food security and community empowerment.
And Zambia Athletics (ZA) president Bernard Bwalya hailed Access Bank and NAPSA for collaborating in ensuring they stage a successful marathon. Major Bwalya assured that ZA will give NAPSA support to ensure the marathon is held in line with required standards.
