ED RICHARDSON
A record-breaking crowd of more than 1,500 Buffalo City walkers gathered at the KuGompo
start of the annual Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer, presented by Isuzu Motors South Africa,
over the weekend.
Stepping out in solidarity, local participants joined a massive regional, national, and
international cohort totaling 22,700 walkers across George, Nelson Mandela Bay, Buffalo
City, and virtual tracks.
The KuGompo turnout marked a substantial jump from the 1,309 walkers recorded in
Buffalo City in 2025, representing a 20% yearon-year growth for the local event.
Thousands walked side-by-side, each step serving as a personal tribute to someone
cherished, a life loved, or a battle fought against cancer.
While the Big Walk established overall attendance records across Gqeberha, George,
and Buffalo City, organisers said the true impact of the event transcended statistics.
“The true spirit of the day lay in the dedication of thousands who walked with their
loved ones’ names emblazoned on banners, T shirts, and, most importantly, held close in their hearts,” Algoa FM managing director, Alfie Jay said.
Jay said the 28th edition had firmly positioned the Big Walk as one of SA’s premier
mass-participation fundraising events.
Since expanding the event structure in 2022 to include dedicated start points in Buffalo City and George, both locations have experienced consistent growth, with George recording a 30% year-on-year surge in entries alongside Buffalo City’s 20% increase.
“What I always find inspiring about the Big Walk, now in its 28th year, is that the people of
Algoa Country are united and connected behind a common cause,” Jay said.
“Political and other differences are simply set aside as we connect as people, with a common objective – to support those affected by cancer.”
Sharné Woods, senior manager of corporate communications at Isuzu Motors South Africa,
highlighted the shared purpose that brought communities together.
“We may be walking for different people, but we walk with one heart. And that is what
connected truly means,” she said.
The proceeds raised from the 2026 event will benefit the Prostate Foundation of South Africa and CHOC (Childhood Cancer Foundation) in
the Eastern Cape.
Owing to this year’s focused campaign on prostate health awareness, Jay confirmed a
record entry number among male participants.
Funds raised through the event will be channeled into purchasing essential prostate
diagnostic equipment for Frere Hospital in Buffalo City, Provincial Hospital in Nelson
Mandela Bay, and George Hospital.
Additionally, funding will support the procurement of a new twin-cab vehicle for
CHOC to assist young cancer patients and their families across the region.
Isuzu Motors South Africa. Picture: ED RICHARDSON