Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka [email protected]
A 23-DAY walkathon from Beitbridge to Harare has emerged as a powerful symbol of Zimbabwe’s growing fight against drug and substance abuse, with NetOne and Heal Us Zimbabwe joining hands to mobilise communities and inspire young people to reject drugs in favour of a healthier future.
Held under the theme “Together We Rise, United We Heal,” the walkathon, which started on June 27 and ends on July 19, is taking the anti-drug campaign directly into communities through awareness meetings, counselling sessions and testimonies from recovering addicts.
The initiative brings together Zimbabwe’s leading telecommunications company, NetOne, and Heal Us Zimbabwe, a grassroots organisation founded by former drug addict Mr Columbus Tapiwa Mushore, in what the partners describe as a people-centred approach to tackling one of the country’s most pressing social challenges.
The campaign comes at a time when Government has intensified efforts to combat drug and substance abuse after President Mnangagwa declared it a national emergency, amid growing concern over rising addiction among young people.
Speaking ahead of the launch of the walkathon in Beitbridge, NetOne Group chief executive officer Engineer Raphael Mushanawani said defeating drug and substance abuse required collective action from all sectors of society.
“We are running towards a future where our youth reject substance abuse,” he said.
“As NetOne, we are honoured to play a central role in this revolution. But we cannot do it alone. Heal Us Zimbabwe brings the lived experience, the frontline truth and the human face of recovery. That is why this partnership matters.”
Eng Mushanawani said the partnership reflected NetOne’s broader commitment to using technology as a tool for national development and social transformation.
“NetOne believes that connectivity is not only about technology but also about connecting people to opportunities, hope and a better future,” he said.
“Heal Us Zimbabwe connects us to the ground reality. They tell us what works, what hurts and what gives young people a reason to choose life. Our job is to amplify that voice across our entire network through voice, data, mobile money and internet services.”
He said the anti-drug campaign extends beyond digital platforms, with both organisations engaging communities directly through schools, youth centres and community halls where young people receive counselling, rehabilitation support and information on the dangers of drug abuse.
“The same technology that distracts can also rehabilitate and educate, and NetOne is determined to be part of that solution,” said Eng Mushanawani.
“Heal Us Zimbabwe shows us where the need is greatest. Together, we are turning connectivity into a lifeline.”
He said the initiative also complements Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 by promoting a healthy and productive youthful population capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
“A productive, healthy youth population is critical if Zimbabwe is to achieve its economic targets. This partnership is not just about saving lives today — it is about securing the nation’s future,” he said.
Heal Us Zimbabwe founder Mr Mushore said the walkathon represented hope for thousands of young Zimbabweans battling addiction, adding that every kilometre covered carried a message of recovery and second chances.
“As someone who has walked the painful road of addiction, I know recovery is possible. Every step we are taking from Beitbridge to Harare is a reminder that no one should fight addiction alone. Communities must stand together and give young people hope instead of condemnation,” he said.
Now on the fourth day of the journey, the walkathon has attracted growing support from communities along the route, with residents providing water, encouragement and joining awareness sessions organised by the campaign team.
The daily programme includes community dialogues, counselling sessions and testimonies from former drug users, turning each stop into an opportunity to educate families and encourage those struggling with addiction to seek help.
Organisers say the response from communities demonstrates that the campaign has evolved beyond a symbolic march into a nationwide movement promoting resilience, recovery and collective responsibility.
As the walkers continue their journey towards Harare, the campaign’s message remains clear: “Your future is in your hands.
Say No to Drugs. Say Yes to Life.”
