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Walter Nyamukondiwa
Mashonaland West Bureau Chief
The 11th Chikonamombe Bhora Youth Tournament and music extravaganza has emerged as a potent force to complement Government efforts in fighting drug and substance abuse among youths.
Running under the theme “Youths against Drugs and Substance Abuse”, the tournament brought together youths from all wards in Mhangura constituency who competed in volleyball, netball and football.
More than 5 000 people gathered at Mhangura Stadium on Saturday for a day-long sports and music gala organised by Mhangura Constituency legislator Dr Douglas Mombeshora.
Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire, who was the guest of honour, said Government was pursuing several initiatives in the fight against drugs and substance abuse and urged youths to play an active role in the fight against the scourge through whistleblowing.
“As a Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, we are working with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to fight against drugs and substance abuse,” he said.
“Our message is that youths should desist from taking drugs and that they should be able to report those who are selling the drugs in the communities in which they live.”
The Government, through his Ministry, was undertaking awareness campaigns, running empowerment programmes and promoting skills development among youths to curb drugs and substance abuse.
He hailed the initiative by Dr Mombeshora as helping to raise youths consciousness against drug and substance abuse.
Tournament organiser Dr Mombeshora said the competition’s objectives were to spread a message against drugs and substance abuse.
“The tournament is not so much about sport and music’, but creating an opportunity to spread a message in the community against the use of drugs for the obvious health and social challenges,” said Dr Mombeshora.
Winning teams and individuals received monetary prizes and trophies.
Minister Machakaire handed over Tinmac branded jerseys to the winning teams, adding that scouts from Simba Bhora attended the tournament to identify talent.
Online Reporter