News & Events

Norton Town Council welcomed the Walk Of Hope crew.

Two-time Paralympic Champion athlete Elliot Mujaji, is undertaking a 500km "Walk of Hope" from Bulawayo to Harare to raise USD 876,374 part of a larger goal of USD 1 million to establish a Centre of Excellence, a Youth Academy based in the Great Dyke Region. The walker recently passed through Norton, where councillors and the Acting Town Clerk warmly welcomed the team.

A powerful message of resilience and community spirit swept through Norton on Thursday 26th of March 2026, as a former para-athlete continued their gruelling 500-kilometer “Walk of Hope.” The journey, which began in Bulawayo and is set to conclude in Harare, aims to raise a monumental $1 million to establish specialized Centre of Excellence, a Youth Academy based in the Great Dyke Region for young talent, including disabled youth, and empower them to chase their dreams regardless of their circumstances. The athlete, Elliot Mujaji a retired Zimbabwean track and field athlete, has been traversing the region for several days, defying physical limits to champion the cause of inclusivity. The initiative seeks to fund the construction of state-of-the-art rehabilitation centres and a dedicated sports academy designed to nurture and empower aspiring athletes with disabilities. The mission received a massive boost upon arrival in Norton. Norton town council extended a warm-hearted welcome to the walker and their support team, recognizing the profound impact of their efforts. Present to receive the team were Councillor Marokwe and Councillor Chaumba alongside the Acting Town Clerk, Mr Batai, who collectively orchestrated the civic reception. In a display of tangible support, the officials provided the team with refreshments, a hearty lunch, and a well-deserved supper, before offering comfortable accommodation for the night. The councillors and the Acting Town Clerk described the gesture as a small token of gratitude for the athlete’s immense contribution to society. “It is an honor to have such a beacon of hope pass through our town,” said Councillor Marokwe on behalf of the leadership. “This walk is not just about physical endurance; it is about building a future where everyone has a chance to excel. We are proud to offer our support, not just with a meal and a place to sleep, but with our commitment to stand with them at the finish line.” The council’s commitment went beyond hospitality. They announced that they will join the athlete at the Harare Show Ground on Sunday 29 March 2026 10am, for the final leg of the journey, accompanying them as they walk to the offices of the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training of Zimbabwe. As the sun rose this morning, Elliot Mujaji and crew set off from Norton with renewed vigor. Reflecting on the support received, the athlete expressed deep gratitude. “The reception here has been overwhelming,” Elliot Mujaji said. “The fatigue of the road vanishes when you see a community rally behind you like this. Having the councillors and the Acting Town Clerk here to support us means the world. This lunch, this rest, and knowing they will be there on Sunday, it fuels the soul. We are not just walking for ourselves; we are walking for every child who deserves a chance to dream.” The Walk of Hope continues its final stretch toward Harare. The team is expected to arrive at the Minister’s offices by Sunday afternoon, where they will seek to garner the necessary backing from them and other individuals and ministries that are willing to support their vision to turn it into reality. People are encouraged to line the streets on Sunday to show their support as the walk concludes. Here are 10 ways you can support Elliot Mujaji (two-time Paralympic Champion) and his friend Eddy Muzavazi as they walk from Bulawayo to Harare 1. Donate to his cause (EcoCash: *153*2*2*001122#) 2. Like and follow his pages Elliot Mujaji Walk of Hope to grow his reach. 3. Record a "Roadside Shoutout" on the BYO-HRE highway to keep his spirits high. 4. Join the walk even for a short chat with him and his team when he enters your city (check the schedule!). 5. Setup a hydration station with water or energy drinks for the team. 6. Tag a Brand: Challenge a corporate giant to match your donation. 7. Hashtag it: Use #WalkForHope to keep the movement viral. 8. Run a "Virtual Mile": Walk locally and donate $1 per kilometre. 9. Advocate: Share the vision of the Great Dyke Sports Park with your network. 10. The Hero’s Welcome: Be there in each city especially in Harare to cheer him across the finish line!