PARTICIPANT WHO DIED DURING MARATHON WAS AN ABSA EMPLOYEE – MIZINGA MELU
PARTICIPANT WHO DIED DURING MARATHON WAS AN ABSA EMPLOYEE – MIZINGA MELU
THE participant who died today during the Absa marathon has been identified as James Chisanga, an employee of the bank.
Chisanga collapsed during the race this afternoon in Lusaka and immediately rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
He served as a supervisor and loans officer at the Bank where he played the role of processing staff loans, particularly in the Bank’s recent initiative to provide solar and alternative energy solutions in response to the ongoing power crisis.
In a statement, Absa Bank CEO Mizinga Melu described the departed as a dedicated and kind member of the team who was liked by everyone.
“James was not only a colleague but also a dear friend to many of us. On Friday he knocked off late as he wanted to clear all the loans that were pending. Ultimate dedication,” noted Melu.
“We mourn not just the loss of a colleague, but a family member. James was more than a name on a list or another participant in the marathon; he was one of us. He was our family member at Absa. I am personally devastated by this loss. Losing a member of staff is one of the most tragic issues any leader will have to deal with.”
The marathon is done in the best interest of the participants to promote health living by taking part in various wellness activities.
Today’s event saw over 6,500 participants running the race with many of the team preparing for their marathon next week.