There is a significant difference between reaching an audience and being able to move one.
For nearly three decades, the Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer presented by Isuzu Motors South Africa has demonstrated Algoa FM’s ability to turn its relationship with listeners into meaningful action. Returning on 31 October 2026, the Eastern Cape and Garden Route’s biggest mass participation event is expected to attract more than 22,000 participants, bringing communities together across Nelson Mandela Bay, Buffalo City and the Garden Route in support of a shared cause.
For national marketers, the scale of the Big Walk tells an important story about the power of a deeply embedded regional media brand. Algoa FM doesn’t simply broadcast into its footprint; it has built the trust and connection required to mobilise thousands of people to participate, engage and act.
This year, that collective action will support two important causes: the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa and CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa. Funds raised will contribute towards prostate cancer diagnostic equipment for hospitals in George, Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City, while the campaign hopes to raise enough funds to provide CHOC with a double-cab bakkie to help its Eastern Cape team reach more communities with childhood cancer education and support. For the first time in the event’s 28-year history, prostate cancer will be a core focus, responding to the growing need for awareness, early detection and access to diagnostic equipment for South African men.
Algoa FM Managing Director Alfie Jay says the longevity of the initiative reflects the relationship the station has built with its community over decades.
“The consistency with which we have built and grown a community to support those affected by cancer, encouraged awareness through education of early detection, and raised funds for charities with a cancer focus, has forged our bond with Algoa Country and is rooted in our collective DNA.”
For presenting partner Isuzu Motors South Africa, the partnership demonstrates how brands can become part of something that matters deeply to the communities they serve.
Nandi Matomela, Department Executive Corporate Affairs at Isuzu Motors South Africa, says the initiative aligns with the company’s broader purpose of helping create better lives for its employees, families, customers and communities.
The Big Walk is ultimately about far more than one morning or one collective event. It demonstrates what becomes possible when a trusted media brand, its audience and commercial partners come together around a shared purpose.
20,000+ people don’t simply demonstrate reach – they demonstrate trust, influence and the ability to mobilise an audience. That is the real power of Algoa FM: it doesn’t simply reach communities, it moves them.
For more information contact Candy Dempers, Commercial Manager Algoa FM and OFM
