"The 'Inner-City Clean-Up' is an opportunity to contribute to a cleaner city while fostering a strong sense of community pride," says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder. "It's a fantastic way for residents to come together and ensure that the 'Friendly City' is race-ready for the action-packed 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K."

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES says it will provide refuse bags and gloves, ensuring all collected waste is properly disposed of. 

"Your participation not only benefits the environment but also helps make Gqeberha a more sustainable city," Meyer adds. "As a token of appreciation, Absa will treat volunteers to delicious breakfast packs and refreshing beverages after the clean-up."

'Single Use Plastic (SUP) Management' Campaign

The Gqeberha 'Inner-City Clean-Up' aligns seamlessly with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES' 'SUP Management Campaign,' which targets an 85% reduction in single-use plastics across all five events, says Absa. 

With sustainability at the heart of the series, Meyer highlights the event's commitment to an eco-friendly race experience. "Designated 'litter zones' will be set up along the route to keep the city waste-free. We also encourage runners to support #ICarryMyOwn by bringing reusable water bottles, which can be refilled at hydration stations along the course," says Meyer. 

"We're excited to return to Gqeberha and can't wait to #RunYourCity alongside thousands of passionate runners," Meyer adds.

"As part of our 'Force for Good' initiative, we are proud to be part of a city clean-up campaign that aligns with our commitment to building healthier, cleaner and vibrant communities. This initiative goes beyond environmental impact; it fosters a sense of pride and ownership among residents, reinforcing the power of collective action to drive meaningful change. We believe that by working together, we can create lasting impact, and through the 'Inner-City Clean-Up' initiative, we hope to inspire others to join us in preserving and beautifying the places we call home," says Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Absa's Head of Sponsorships.

Gqeberha 'Inner-City Clean-Up' Event Details

  • Date: Saturday, 12 April
  • Time: 08:30 to 10:00
  • Venue: Absa Branch, Govan Mbeki Avenue, Port Elizabeth Central, Gqeberha 

Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K Event Details

  • Date: Sunday, 13 April
  • Start Time: 07:00
  • Start and Finish Venue: Beach Road, Humewood, Gqeberha

Charity Support

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES concludes that it supports the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) as the official charity of the entire series of events. When entering an Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES event online, runners can show their support by donating towards CANSA. 

For more information, visit www.runyourcityseries.com. You can also follow the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series on Facebook or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor