Online Reporter
Stephen Mpofu, Perspective
LUCIFER and his agents in the flesh are wreaking havoc on the lives of Zimbabwe’s youth through the scourge of drug and substance abuse. This crisis threatens not only the health and future of young people, but also the brave new society they are meant to shape. It is long overdue for the Church, through its members, to rise and actively combat this growing menace.
In response, the President has authorised the launch of a nationwide sports initiative — the Munhumutapa Cup — featuring volleyball, netball, football, and basketball. The tournament is designed to engage young people across the country in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
The President has also called upon the Church to play a pivotal role in eradicating social ills such as drug abuse, crime, bullying, and other anti-social behaviours. Parents, guardians, and church communities are urged to become torchbearers in this campaign, as drug abuse continues to contribute to school dropouts and declining academic performance, undermining Zimbabwe’s once-proud literacy reputation.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) will reinforce efforts under the Munhumutapa Cup and work alongside the Church to eliminate drug and substance abuse across the nation.
Speaking yesterday, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi outlined the police’s role in tackling crime and supporting the national anti-drug strategy.
“We are an enforcement arm of the government in terms of fighting crime, including the fight against drug and substance abuse. We are also part of the national taskforce set up by His Excellency — the National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse — where various stakeholders contribute through awareness campaigns, rehabilitation of victims, and coordination of activities at all levels,” he said.
He affirmed the police’s commitment to the fight against drug abuse and expressed hope that the campaign would help stem the flow of dangerous substances into Zimbabwe, particularly those trafficked from East Africa and across the northern border.
Above all, the Church must continue to spread the message of hope and redemption, as captured in John 3:16 (King James Version):
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
This scripture calls on Zimbabweans to love Jesus Christ, who overcame evil, by rejecting drugs and all forms of vice. In doing so, they too may walk the path to eternal life.
