Moffat Mungazi
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
IN a powerful tale of resilience and redemption, a youth from Odzi Township, in Mutare North Constituency, has shared his story of overcoming drug addiction, which had threatened to wreck and torn apart his promising future.
His journey marked by struggles and setbacks, ultimately led to a path of recovery and hope.
The 21-year-old Andrew Pashata, was trapped in a cycle of substance abuse, and for him, it seemed like there was no escape route.
He lost friends, family trust and even his sense of purpose for the three good years he was entangled in crystal meth abuse.
However, not everyone gave up on him as a local church leader continued to pursue him to ditch drug uptake and find life in Christ.
It was not an easy task for the pastor to convince Pashata, but he eventually succeeded, and the young man is slowly building his life back to normalcy.
To prove that he indeed has left the dark underworld of drugs, Pashata is now leading anti-drug and substance abuse activities at the township.
He is now working with health officials, police and development partners on spreading the word on the negative effects of drugs.
In an interview on the sidelines of a drug and substance abuse awareness campaign held at the township last week, Pashata revealed that drug abuse took him to his ‘own world’ where he respected no one, and involved himself in dangerous activities, much to the chagrin of his parents.
“I used to be a drug addict, but later realised that it was not something good. When I was indulging, it was the best thing for myself. I was mainly into crystal meth, popularly known as guka. We were a group five, and would buy our drugs at a local base. Once intoxicated, I will ‘stick’ for a long time, not conscious of what will be happening around me.
“Due to drug uptake, I lost respect for other people, including my parents. I felt I was in my own world where others would not reach. I was so energetic, but not productive. I was always moving and running around. I made several dangerous decisions and acts while intoxicated since I had a rare sense of bravery. Drugs took me to an imaginary top of the world scenario where I was a powerful person.
“I started taking drugs in 2021 soon after sitting for my Ordinary Levels, and I stopped in 2024. Very few people knew that I was into drugs because I never took them openly. They just noticed my weird behaviour. Some people later sold me out to my parents, who questioned me. I told them to leave me alone as this was my life,” he said.
He credits his escape from the jaws of guka to a religious leader, who patiently persuaded him to change his lifestyle before it was too late.
He had no kind words for drug peddlers, and castigated them as irresponsible individuals profiteering, and out to destroy young people’s health and future.
“A certain religious leader approached me and he had a lengthy conversation with me. He highlighted to me that my behaviour was uncouth, and invited me to join him in prayers. One day after a deep reflection on my wayward behaviour, I made a decision to stop taking drugs.
“I joined an apostolic church and started leading a Christian life. I completely quit drugs although I still drink alcohol here and there. Drugs are not good at all as they ruin youths’ future. To fellow youths, I encourage you not to take drugs because there is nothing to benefit.
“Drug peddlers are evil people and a danger to society. To them, they take it as simple business, but they are destroying young people’s lives. What kind of business which causes other people mental problems? This is a bad way of making money,” said Pashata.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza implored on stakeholders to be vigilant in fighting the drug menace which is threat to the future of the nation.
“I urge parents to be vigilant. Talk to your children. Teach them the dangers of drugs. Encourage them to pursue their dreams and support them in finding positive outlets for their energy and talents. Teachers and community leaders, you are the foundation upon which this outreach is built. Continue to be the pillars of hope and guidance. Your influence shapes the future of our children and youths.
“To the youth of this community and our province at large, you are the future of this nation. Stay strong, focused and know that you have a community that believes in you, and is ready to help you achieve greatness. No matter the challenges you face, there is always support and a path forward that leads to a brighter future which is drug-free.
“I urge the church to continue preaching unity, peace, love and harmony, while also encouraging society to reject ills such as drug and substance abuse, gender based violence, bullying, corruption and child marriages,” he said.
Mutare District Medical Officer (DMO), Dr David Muchirewese revealed that drug abuse is a significant concern in urban settlements.
To address this, he said, the Ministry of Health and Child Care has equipped nurses and village health workers with training on early screening and detection to facilitate rehabilitation for those affected.
“Drug and substance abuse is more prevalent in urban centres, particularly in areas like Sakubva, Dangamvura, Chikanga, and peri-urban settlements like Penhalonga and Odzi, which is why we are here. While it also occurs in rural areas, the scale is smaller,” he said.
Dr Muchirewese highlighted the range of drugs being abused, including crystal meth and alcohol, which have severe mental and physical consequences, as well as disrupting family cohesion.
“To combat this, our ministry is implementing a multi-faceted approach, focusing on early screening, detection, and intervention.
‘‘We have enhanced the capacity of our nurses and village health workers through training and support from our development partners,” said Dr Muchirewese.
Online Reporter