Deputy Finance Minister Dr David Masondo will, on June 8, participate in his seventh Comrades Marathon in support of early childhood development (ECD).

Running under the banner of the Community Chest Durban and Pietermaritzburg charity, in KwaZulu-Natal, Masondo aims to raise funds and awareness to support young children during the most crucial years of their development.

"Running for the Community Chest charity and helping in ECD is an opportunity I want to take with my 2025 Comrades Marathon journey," he says.

The Deputy Minister has set a fundraising goal of R25 000, with all proceeds going directly to initiatives focused on education, nutrition and holistic care for children in underserved communities.

The Comrades Marathon stretches nearly 90 km and draws thousands of runners from South Africa and abroad each year.

“For Masondo, it is more than a test of stamina, it is a chance to lead by example, showing that even in positions of national responsibility, personal action can make a real difference,” the Deputy Minister’s office notes in a media release.

Those who wish to support and contribute to the cause by visiting Masondo’s fundraising page.