Church should play role in combating drug abuse

Robin Muchetu, Sunday News Reporter

VICE-PRESIDENT General (Rtd) Constantino Chiwenga has underscored the critical role of the Church in remoulding the moral fabric of society in the face of rising drug and substance abuse among the youths in the country.

Speaking at the Unshakeable Pentecostal Church in Old Magwegwe, Bulawayo, where Apostle Haney Resten Sawasawa was honoured with an honorary degree in Rheology from the EL Shaddai Theological Seminary, VP Chiwenga emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Church and Government in tackling social issues.

“The partnership between the Church and Government is essential in addressing the drug abuse crisis. The Church, as a moral authority, has a unique ability to engage individuals at the grassroots level to combat the challenges we face,” he stated.

The Vice-President urged both the Church and communities to take an active role in nurturing the youth, underscoring that the responsibility cannot rest solely on the Government.

“The fight against drug abuse requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including the Church, there should be no room for passengers if we are to win the war against the scourge of drugs,” he reiterated.

**Unshakeable Pentecostal Church congregants follow proceedings at the conferment of honorary Professorship on the church’s Apostle Haney Resten Sawasawa in Magwegwe, Bulawayo yesterday**

VP Chiwenga said the Government’s commitment to ending the drug and substance abuse scourge was demonstrated by President Mnangagwa’s launch of the Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030).

The plan outlines seven key pillars aimed at addressing drug supply reduction, demand reduction, treatment and rehabilitation, psychosocial support, community reintegration, and policy enforcement.

During the launch, President Mnangagwa warned that the scourge of drug abuse transcends socio-economic boundaries, affecting all facets of society and threatening the very fabric of families.

Accompanied by his wife, Colonel Miniyothabo Chiwenga—who grew up in the Unshakeable Pentecostal Church—the Vice-President lauded Apostle Sawasawa for his contributions to community cohesion and moral guidance.

“Apostle Sawasawa has been a key figure in shaping the social landscape of Zimbabwe through initiatives that address poverty and inequality. His influence extends far beyond religious practices, encompassing a wide range of activities that contribute to regional development and stability.

“His grassroots presence has enabled him to reach marginalized communities and address critical social issues as well as fostering a spirit of cohesion and supportive environment that benefits society on various fronts,” said VP Chiwenga.

He also praised President Mnangagwa for granting the Church the freedom to worship and empowering it to engage in economic activities within the Second Republic’s framework.

“I encourage the Church to leverage these opportunities to uplift the community,” he stated.

Apostle Sawasawa expressed gratitude for the Vice-President’s visit, reinforcing the belief that faith-based institutions can champion moral education and community development.