Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
A NEW church building has sprung up in Buhera and those who are behind the project say that it is more than just a church.
They are saying it is an arena dedicated beyond worship as it will serve as a hub for the community to fight against drug and substance abuse.
The initiative was led by Apostle Benjamin Joseph Murata of New Life Pentecostal church for community outreach.
Apostle Murata, a Professor who has written 32 books, said the centre is meant to benefit villagers in four wards, which are under Chief Nerutanga.
Many youths in the villages are facing growing challenges such as unemployment, lack of guidance, and increasing exposure to hard drugs and harmful substances.
“We did not build this place only for prayers,” said Apostle Murata.
“We built it to become a place where young people can be trained, supported, and protected from destructive habits like drug abuse.”
Inside the church premises, the resource centre is expected to host multiple community programmes, including skills and vocational training (such as tailoring, carpentry basics, phone repair, and small business support).
The other projects include:
Community development projects such as gardening managed in partnership with youth groups.
After-school support and mentoring for students.
Counselling and awareness sessions focused on substance abuse prevention.
Apostle Murata said his involvement was motivated by concern for the direction many young people were taking.
“When I looked around, I realised many youths have talents but no structured opportunities,” he said.
“If we don’t guide them early, drugs and peer pressure will steal their future. This building will help us fight that.
“Plans in place include weekly youth meetings and rehabilitation support referrals, regular public education talks involving elders, counsellors and local leaders
“Engagement programmes with parents to improve home support systems, collaboration with relevant health and community organisations,” he said.
