The 2025 Dr Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi Half Marathon: Honoring a Legacy While Raising Diabetes Awareness

The much-anticipated 2025 Dr Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi Half Marathon is set to return to the iconic Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton on February 2. Now in its fourth edition, this year’s event carries a deeper meaning as it aims to raise awareness about the complications of diabetes, a cause close to the heart of the late Tuku.

This year’s marathon holds special significance, marking six years since the passing of the beloved music icon. Tuku, who died on January 23, 2019, at the age of 66, succumbed to complications related to diabetes. Since his death, numerous events have been held to honor his life and legacy, including the annual half marathon which was established as a tribute to his contributions to music and society.

Tuku, a cultural icon and the leader of the Black Spirits, was not only known for his music but also for his dedication to various causes, including health, particularly diabetes awareness. The marathon serves as both a celebration of his life and a platform to educate the public about the ongoing fight against diabetes.

The marathon, which includes races of 5 km, 10 km, and 21.1 km, will attract both professional and amateur runners. Sylvia Sanyanga, the event’s director, shared with The Herald Arts that preparations for the race are well underway. She expressed excitement about the upcoming edition and confirmed that registration remains open, with many participants already signed up. Some organizations have even registered large groups, such as a corporation that has entered 150 runners in honor of Tuku’s legacy.

Sanyanga emphasized that the event would also serve as an educational platform, providing a space to discuss the impact of diabetes and how it can be managed. Experts will be present to speak with participants and attendees, raising awareness about this ongoing health issue.

The marathon promises to be an engaging and enriching experience, with athletes receiving medals, refreshments, and a sense of accomplishment for their participation. Runners will have the opportunity to choose their preferred race distance, and the event will kick off at 5 am. The registration fee of US$20 includes a medal and refreshments.

In addition to the race itself, participants will enjoy live music performances by Pakare Paye’s talented students and Tuku’s friends. The event will offer an opportunity for fans of Tuku to mingle and celebrate his life in a festive atmosphere. Special merchandise will also be available for purchase, ensuring a vibrant and memorable occasion.

Sanyanga, who has a personal connection to Tuku through his support of her family when her children required bone marrow transplants in India, spoke fondly of the late musician’s generosity. Her experience with Tuku’s kindness has motivated her to remain involved in the marathon every year, both as the director and as a participant.

The 2025 event is expected to draw a large crowd, with over 500 participants anticipated, surpassing previous editions. Jah Prayzah, a renowned Zimbabwean artist and Tuku’s protégé, has also shown support for the event, sharing a promotional video to encourage others to join in the celebration.

As the countdown to the marathon begins, Sanyanga and her team remain optimistic about the success of the event. “We have strong belief that the event will be a success, considering everything we’ve done and the support we’re receiving,” she said.

The Dr Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi Half Marathon not only honors the legacy of a legendary musician but also serves as a meaningful community event that promotes health, fitness, and the fight against diabetes. As the event draws closer, it continues to inspire runners, fans, and well-wishers to celebrate Tuku’s memory and continue his mission of making a difference in the lives of others.