Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo recently in Tsholotsho
MATABELELAND North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Richard Moyo, has commended the Zimbabwe Indigenous Inter-denominational Council of Churches (ZIICC) for partnering with Government in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
He made the remarks through the director of provincial co-ordination in his office, Mr Tapera Mugoriya, during the annual ZIICC youth games held in Tsholotsho District on Saturday evening. Eight provinces participated in three sporting disciplines — soccer, netball and volleyball — while two others sent representatives who joined an anti-drug campaign around Tsholotsho Business Centre.
“I want to applaud ZIICC for partnering with Government in fighting drugs and substance abuse among our youths. One of the key pillars of attaining an upper-middle-income society by 2030 is ensuring we have a productive workforce as we build Zimbabwe brick by brick, stone by stone, as envisioned by President Mnangagwa,” said Minister Moyo.
Chaired by Bishop Patrick Mahachi, ZIICC said the annual event aims to cast the “demons” of drug and substance abuse away from young people.
Minister Moyo stressed that no nation can prosper with drug-addicted youths.
“You are the future leaders. Tell yourself now that stopping drug and substance abuse starts with you and all of us,” he said.
Speaking at Tsholotsho High School, one of the two venues used for the games, ZIICC Matabeleland North secretary-general Mncedisi Dube said the programme’s main objective is to unite youths in the fight against drugs.
“As churches in Zimbabwe, we have declared war against drugs and substance abuse. The idea is to bring young people together, preach the gospel about the dangers of abusing drugs, and use activities like sport to highlight these dangers,” said Dube.
Ahead of the competitions, an anti-drug march was held around Tsholotsho Business Centre, with Tsholotsho South legislator and Deputy Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Cde Musa Ncube, taking part.
The event was also attended by members of ZIICC’s national leadership, led by secretary general Thabani Dube.
ZIICC was formed to represent indigenous churches, many of which were founded during the colonial era. Its formation was motivated by the need for a body to speak on behalf of indigenous churches whose views differed from those of Western-oriented mainline churches. Bishop Reverend Nehemiah Mutendi is the council’s patron.
