Windhoek: The 2026 edition of the Nedbank Citi Dash was officially launched in Windhoek on Wednesday, with organisers setting an ambitious target of attracting 5,000 participants to this year's event. The popular road-running event is scheduled to take place on 05 and 06 September and will once again be hosted at the Windhoek High School's Vegkop Stadium.According to Namibia Press Agency, Acting Deputy Director in the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, Mzee Letu Hamhola, described the Nedbank Citi Dash as more than just a sporting event, saying it promotes healthy living, active lifestyles, and outdoor family recreation. 'This is a people's event. Today, we are not simply unveiling another race; we are unveiling a movement that has grown into one of the premier road races, not only in Windhoek but across Namibia,' he said. Hamhola also commended Nedbank Namibia for its continued investment in sport, wellness initiatives, and community development programmes.Race organiser F rank Bombosch said this year's event will focus on two key pillars - youth participation and safety. He explained that organisers are seeking greater involvement from secondary schools, youth clubs, and athletics development structures across the country. 'We are witnessing a remarkable growth in running as a sport in Namibia. At this year's Comrades Marathon in South Africa, more than 90 Namibians took part. Namibia had the second-largest national representation at one of the world's most prestigious and recognised road-running events, attracting participants from across the globe,' Bombosch said. He added that race organisers had responded to athletes' requests by introducing an earlier start time. Bombosch further highlighted the economic value of sport, noting that participation in sporting activities helps equip young people with important life skills, while creating opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.Nedbank Namibia Managing Director Martha Murorua said the bank remained committed to ma king a positive impact in the communities in which it operates. 'Since its inception in 2019, the Nedbank Citi Dash has grown into one of our flagship events, not only in terms of participation but also in impact. What began as a race has evolved into a platform that brings Namibians together through a shared commitment to healthier lifestyles and stronger communities,' she said. Murorua noted that Nedbank Namibia's support for sport extends across a wide range of disciplines, including cycling, volleyball, cricket, football, netball, athletics, and golf.Online registration for the 2026 Nedbank Citi Dash officially opened on 17 June and will remain open until 17 August 2026.