Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa
Herald Reporter
JOY and gratitude once again filled the Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Mbare as families reunited with their loved ones in recovery during another edition of the centre’s heart-warming reunion.
Tears, laughter and warm embraces marked the occasion, giving families the chance to witness the ongoing transformation of their children now radiating confidence, strength and a renewed sense of purpose.
The atmosphere was electric with thanksgiving as parents and guardians welcomed back children from the centre’s latest intake, many of whom were once feared, lost to addiction. Some quietly wept, others cried openly, while a few broke into spontaneous song and dance.
As the drug survivors met their families, some performed flawless drills, others showcased their talents through poetry and song, with one survivor stealing the spotlight through a moving musical performance.
The reunions were filled with shared meals, storytelling and light-hearted moments, creating space for genuine reconnection.
One of the most eye-catching moments came when a birthday boy’s parents arrived with a cake and sang for him, much to everyone’s delight.
In another touching scene, a mother, overcome with emotion, lovingly fed her son a piece of chicken, a simple act symbolising forgiveness and renewed trust.
For the recovering youths, the day was a chance to demonstrate how far they had come physically restored, emotionally steadier and spiritually renewed.
Several survivors confessed to their past mistakes, promising to become ambassadors of Angel of Hope and to help others on their journey to recovery.
Each reunion began with heartfelt apologies, as remorseful survivors knelt before their families, seeking forgiveness for the pain caused during their darkest days.
Mother Zimbabwe took time to exchange notes with parents, listening to their experiences and observations since their children entered the programme.
Dr Mnangagwa, together with the centre’s staff, provided counselling to families during the reunions to help rebuild bonds and ensure that reconnection was both meaningful and constructive.
In her interaction with the parents and guardian, the First Lady said the purpose of the visit is to assess the progress made by those who were previously affected by drug abuse.
Mother Zimbabwe said the visit aimed to assess improvements in behaviour, appearance, and well-being, noting interest in whether individuals, especially those once incoherent, were now speaking positively, eating well and maintaining good hygiene.
Dr Mnangagwa said the fight against drugs and substances is a collective issue.
“When the drug survivors return home, I urge you not to insult or stigmatise them. These young people need care, understanding and encouragement.
“The fight against drug abuse is not for one person alone, it is our collective responsibility as families, communities and a nation,” she said.
Mother Zimbabwe also said everyone who leaves the rehabilitation programme should do so as a person of good character, discipline, and hope for the future.
“Over the next two weeks, we will complete the remaining stages of their rehabilitation. After this, they will proceed to skills training programmes before returning home, where you will see them again.
“Together, let us continue to nurture and guide them towards a better, drug-free life,” she said.
Families of drug survivors expressed deep gratitude and amazement at the visible transformation of their loved ones following the rehabilitation programme recently inaugurated by the First Lady.
A mother who was once assaulted by her son during intake day said she was at a loss for words after witnessing his remarkable change.
“My child once tried to kill me, he grabbed my neck,” she recalled. “But when I saw him today, he looked like a new person. I’m so happy; it’s unbelievable. He is now respectful and humble. He even knelt down to ask for forgiveness.
“I’m glad he has been taken to a skills centre, and he expressed his willingness to do his best,” she said.
An uncle whose nephew arrived at the centre with both hands and legs chained described the transformation as life-changing.
“I saw my nephew, and my heart is filled with joy. There is a visible change. He came here chained, but today he is calm and remorseful,” he said.
“He used to speak incoherently, but now he speaks clearly and with purpose. The First Lady truly has a mother’s love.”
Another mother expressed her gratitude for the rehabilitation initiative.
“I want to thank the First Lady. My son was known for being troublesome to the point that I had to transfer him from Highfield, where I live, to Mhondoro to stay with my brothers.
“When I saw him today, he ran to me, hugged me, and apologised for his behaviour. May our First Lady continue with her compassion and love,” she said.
A grandmother whose grandson began abusing drugs at 16 said the transformation was nothing short of miraculous.
“My grandson started using drugs when he was 16. I thank this programme for transforming him. Today, he knelt before m,e something he has never done in his entire life,” she said. “He promised to repair everything he damaged and sold once he is released.”
A woman who travelled from Bindura said the rehabilitation programme was a powerful testimony to how lives are being restored.
“I thank the First Lady for this wonderful programme. We once feared this child because of his violent temper, but today he is respectful and calm. He has shown that he is a child under the care of a mother who knows what she is doing,” she said.
The Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre continues to offer life-changing recovery, and with each edition of the reunion, families are reminded that hope, love, and redemption are always within reach.
