FORMER Olympian Frank Fredericks has urged Namibians to support breast cancer awareness and early detection,
saying the inaugural NHP Pink Run offers an opportunity to unite behind the cause.
“I joined the NHP Pink Run 2026, I did so not only as a retired athlete and Olympic silver medalist, but also as a
director of Medscheme Namibia, an administrator of NHP.
“For me, this event represented something far greater than a run. It was an opportunity to stand alongside Namib-
ians in support of breast cancer awareness, to honour those whose lives have been touched by cancer, and to encourage a stronger culture of prevention and early detection,” Fredericks says. “Having spent much of my life in sport, I have come to appreciate that the influence of an athlete extends far beyond the track.” He says current and former athletes have a responsibility to use their platforms to inspire healthy choices and to support causes that make meaningful differences in people’s lives. “The Pink Run reflects these values perfectly. It is not merely about
recognition; it is about creating an opportunity for people to move together, support one another, bring a personal
reason for participating, and take the next step towards screening and early intervention.” He says it was particularly encouraging to see men come out in support of the Pink Run, adding that cancer awareness
Ndjiharine Katjivena, says NHP’s Pink Run is more than just another run, as it aims to raise aware-
ness of cancer.
should be a collective responsibility, and men must understand that they too are affected by cancer.
REMEMBERING STAY-C NAMASES
“For me, the Pink Run also carried a personal meaning. Last year, we lost Stay-C Namases to cancer.“She had been part of the Frank Fredericks Foundation family since its inauguration in 1999 and continued to support our work and attend our events, even during her own battle with cancer,” Fredericks says. “She consistently showed up for us, and it was only right that we showed up in support of her and this cause. “My hope is that the NHP Pink Run becomes
a movement that inspires healthier lifestyles, earlier detection,and a future where fewer families are affected by
cancer,” he says. In commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Namibia
Health Plan (NHP) brought breast cancer awareness to the streets of Windhoek through its inaugural NHP Pink Run, where nearly 2 000 participants laced up for a cause that goes beyond wearing pink and talking about breast cancer. Held under the theme ‘Every Reason to Run” the race was designed
around raising awareness for breast cancer,encouraging people to seek appropriate medical care and making
healthier choices.The Pink Run gave participants a physical way to embody that message, turning a health conversation into movement and creating a platform where
people could run for themselves, for someone they love, for someone they have lost, or simply because they believe that health deserves action. Hosted at Ramblers Sports Club, the race offered 5km, 10km and 21km distances, attracting participants with different levels of running experience.
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