Gandhi Walk draws thousands

THE Gandhi Walk Committee (GWC) hosted the 32nd annual Gandhi Walk on Sunday, April 23, starting and finishing at Gandhi Hall in Extension 5, Lenasia. This is known as the biggest interfaith walk in the South of Johannesburg with thousands of people usually turning up to walk it.

The morning began with a free hot cup of coffee for all and a light warm-up yoga session hosted by the Art of Living Foundation (which was well attended, with a few hundred people doing yoga and stretches before the walk). Following the 12km fun run and the 6km and 12km walks, all participants received their commemorative medal (which was inscribed with a quote by Ahmed Kathrada), a free Skechers top and goodie-bag and a complimentary drink. The first three males and females were all presented with trophies.

This year, GWC went all out to host a jam-packed afternoon of free entertainment, starting with an open-air Salsa street party for all to enjoy. There were food samplings, cake demonstrations and even complimentary medical health checks conducted by personnel from the Ahmed Kathrada Private Hospital. There was also dancing, singing and comedy to entertain everyone. The competition called “If the Shoe Fits – Keep It” enthralled six people who won a lovely new pair of Skechers Go Walk shoes.

As a result of the efforts of GWC, the event is drawing more and more participation from people of different religions and faiths, walking in unity. “For communities and suburbs across Johannesburg, Gandhi Walk encouraged multi-racial participation,” said GWC PRO, Mahendra Modi.

Stepping up their plans for a greener walking event, and accepting a social media challenge from Miss Earth South Africa, the Gandhi Walk Committee (in partnership with Pikitup) exceeded their goal and recycled an estimated 95.7 per cent of their waste following the event. GWC also pledges to review and implement more “green plans” for the next Gandhi Walk.

The Gandhi Walk Committee expresses its gratitude to the community and walkers who participated in this year’s walk and fun run, and the many volunteers, sponsors and partners of this event. “Next year will be even better,” says GWC.

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