Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE yesterday marked the International Day of Children and Young People’s Wellness in Harare today where young people were warned against drug and substance abuse and report those who sell drugs.
The event, a joint initiative by the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare and the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s Drugs and Narcotics Section, encouraged children to take control of their future.
The comprehensive programme also covered drug awareness, child protection, career guidance, leadership development and the importance of national heritage.
Speaking at the event, Mrs Ruvarashe Chigiya-Mujeni, the director of Gender Mainstreaming, Inclusivity and Wellness in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, said it was their duty to teach the children.
“We realised that while we, as public servants, are working hard for the nation, our children are often left unsupervised and vulnerable. There is no one teaching them about drugs, child abuse, or their rights anymore,” she said.
“In the past, we had our aunts, uncles, grandfathers, and grandmothers who would guide and protect our children. Today, because of globalisation and migration, families are scattered and many children are left to navigate life alone.”
Dr Newton Demba, managing consultant at the Logistics Research and Training Institute, led dynamic sessions on leadership, grooming and confidence building.
Peter Tanyanyiwa