Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
IN a bold move to address the growing concerns of substance abuse among Zimbabwe’s youths, Munashe Magezi, a contender for Mr. Heritage Zimbabwe 2025, has unveiled a comprehensive plan to support young people struggling with addiction.
Magezi focuses on community-based initiatives, mobile wellness clinics, and skills development programmes.
Magezi is in the top 20 finalists of Mr Heritage Zimbabwe scheduled for November 8.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Magezi aims to empower Zimbabwe’s youths to make positive choices and build a brighter future.“Our beautiful nation has faced many storms, but none more devastating than watching our future leaders, our youths, lose themselves to drugs and substance abuse.
“This crisis does not discriminate. It affects families in Harare’s suburbs, villages in Manicaland, townships in Bulawayo, and communities across our beloved Zimbabwe,” he said.
At the heart of Magezi’s plan is the “Dare Rekuzvitakura” (Circle of Self-Worth) initiative, which seeks to establish community-based support groups in every province.
“I will launch the ‘Dare Rekuzvitakura’ (Circle of Self-Worth) Initiative community-based support groups in every province where young people can find mentorship, skills training and, most importantly, hope. Because addiction thrives in isolation, but recovery flourishes in the community.
“I will also establish Mobile Wellness Clinics that bring mental health support, addiction counselling, and life skills training directly to our rural and underserved communities.
“Healthcare is a right, not a privilege.”
He added: “I will champion the ‘Heritage Heroes’ Programme partnering with schools, churches, and traditional leaders to identify and celebrate young Zimbabweans who are making positive choices, creating a culture where being drug-free is not just normal, but celebrated.
“My advice to every young person listening: Your story is not over. Your potential is limitless.
“Zimbabwe needs your talents, your creativity, your energy. Not destroyed by substances, but sharpened by purpose and pride in our heritage.
“To every parent, every community leader: We cannot build Zimbabwe’s future on a foundation weakened by neglect of our youth.
“This is our collective responsibility.”
Recognising the link between economic hopelessness and substance abuse, Magezi advocates for skills development programmes in areas such as agriculture technology, art, modelling, crafts, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship.
“Many young Zimbabweans turn to substances due to hopelessness about their economic prospects.
“I would advocate for skills development programmes, particularly in areas like agriculture technology, art, modelling, crafts ,digital literacy, and entrepreneurship. When young people see viable paths to economic independence, they’re less likely to seek escape through substances.”
Mathew Masinge