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Mangaliso Kabulika
A FORMER drug addict captured the hearts of many with his touching story in which he overcame his addiction.
He narrated his story at an anti-drug campaign held in Dzivaresekwa 3 at the weekend.
The campaign, organised by the Zimpapers Group, was aimed at raising awareness about the devastating impact of drug abuse and provide support to those struggling with addiction.
Tapiwa Chandavengerwa (34) took centre stage as he shared his journey from the depths of addiction, which started when he met a woman in South Africa, who introduced him to crack cocaine.
“The first time I was introduced to crack cocaine I did not feel its effects because I was drunk on alcohol. However, the second time I tried it, I felt so high.
“I kept on chasing that feeling until I started acting out of character.
“I lost my job, stayed away from home for about three months doing drugs and, in some instances, I started stealing.
“I realised that I was not brought up by my parents to be like that.
“I was born to be a leader from primary school as I held various positions of leadership.
“The Devil saw potential in me and took advantage of that.”
Tapiwa added:
“The day I decided to stop was when I came back home after three months.
“I saw my mother making fat cooks, she had resorted to selling that to take care of a grown-up man like me and my other siblings.
“In the midst of it all, I saw she had lost weight remarkably and I blamed myself.
“I told myself if she lost her life it was because of me.
“That very day I decided to stop.
“Prayer saved me, I never went to a rehabilitation centre or consulted any professional.
“I even prayed a lot, it took time but eventually I became a changed man.”
Tapiwa has been sober for two years.
“Some may not accept that drugs control their lives but the truth is they take over your life no matter how rich you are.
“Ever since I stopped I never attempted to take drugs again.
“The picture of drugs irritates me.”
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter