Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Health Reporter
JUNIOR parliamentarians in the province have been challenged to take a firm stance against the rising menace of drug and substance abuse among youths.
Speaking during the official handover of 44 electronic tablets donated by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, to junior MPs, Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck
Mugadza described the menace as a threat to the nation’s future.
Minister Mugadza said as representatives of youths in their constituencies, junior MPs have a moral obligation to become role models and vocal advocates against drug abuse and other social ills destroying young lives.
“Our country is at a crossroads as it battles the scourge of drug and substance abuse among youths. As junior parliamentarians, you must be the voice that speaks out against this crisis. Be examples in your communities, alert authorities to any cases of drug use you encounter, and help spread awareness about its dangers. Zimbabwe’s future depends on your generation’s ability to rise above this challenge,” said Minister Mugadza.
He said drug abuse has become a silent pandemic, robbing young people of potential and productivity.
“You are the representatives of the country’s young people in schools and communities. I call upon you, not only to be models for others to emulate, but also to speak strongly against substance abuse, which continues to destroy our youths. Let your leadership reflect responsibility and purpose,” he added.
Minister Mugadza also presented the 44 electronic tablets to the MPs on behalf of President Mnangagwa.
He said the gadgets symbolised empowerment, opportunity, and inclusion in the global digital revolution, describing them as tools of knowledge, creativity, and innovation that will help young leaders contribute meaningfully to national development.
Minister Mugadza commended President Mnangagwa for his visionary leadership and continued investment in youth empowerment through programmes such as the Digital Skills Development Programme.
He said these initiatives are creating opportunities for young people, reducing idleness, and curbing unemployment.
He, however, warned the recipients to use the gadgets responsibly, urging them to use them to fight drug and substance abuse.
“Digital access is a powerful tool for empowerment when used correctly, but when abused, it can bring harm and destruction. Use these devices to learn, innovate, and serve the people of Zimbabwe. Avoid harmful online content that could derail your future,” said Minister Mugadza.
Manicaland Provincial Education Director, Mr Richard Gabaza described the President’s gesture as a milestone in the advancement of digital learning and youth empowerment in Manicaland.
He said the donation reflected Government’s commitment to ensure that learners across Zimbabwe are equipped with the skills and tools necessary to succeed in the digital age.
“This generous gesture by the President is, not just an act of giving, it is an investment in the future of our nation. By placing these devices in your hands, the President has entrusted you, our junior Members of Parliament, with the tools to shape your own future and that of Zimbabwe,” said Mr Gabaza.
He also revealed that Government plans to install Starlink Wi-Fi connectivity in schools across the country to revolutionise access to education and bridge the digital divide between rural and urban learners.
“This commitment by the Second Republic speaks to its mantra of leaving no one and no place behind. Once implemented, our schools will be connected to global networks, giving learners access to online resources and exposure to international learning platforms,” he said.
Mr Gabaza also applauded Minister Mugadza for his continued support of Manicaland’s education sector.
In an interview, Junior Vice President, Honourable Patrick Masakura expressed his gratitude, saying, “I would like to thank the
President for this donation, as it will enable us to conduct research in line with the Heritage-Based Curriculum. We are also excited about the promised Starlink kits for our schools.”
Junior Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Aldermane Makoni said the tablets will help bridge the digital gap between rural and urban learners, enabling young leaders to conduct research and engage more effectively in community development.
Junior Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Rutendo Dhlakama expressed gratitude to the President, saying the gesture has inspired the young parliamentarians to become ambassadors of innovation, discipline, and hope.
