Online Reporter
Tanaka Nkala, Chronicle Reporter
Bulawayo’s Nketa suburb on Saturday conducted a public campaign against drug and substance abuse while calling for collective stakeholder effort in combating the vice.
Arise Zimbabwe, a community organisation based in Nketa 9, led the initiative, which saw participants marching from Nketa 9 shops to Nketa 8 while urging the community to unite to foster a healthier, drug-free environment for the youth of Bulawayo and Zimbabwe as a whole.
Addressing the community during the walk one of the programme leaders, Mr Claudious Moyo, educated the public and listed the types of drugs, which are commonly used by the youth in the community.
“These drugs are dangerous as they can harm an individual’s body and ultimately lead to death,” he said.
Mr Moyo also encouraged the youth to stay away from drugs and substances to promote a healthy lifestyle and contribute to a better Zimbabwe, as they are the future leaders of the country.
Substance abuse is a public health issue in Zimbabwe, driven by mental health challenges, and social influences economic hardship and economic hardship.
Ms Lindi Mlazi, a member of the organization, highlighted the causes of addiction and proposed solutions that the community can work on to stop the spread of this scourge.
“It’s not too late to seek help, as there are several rehabilitation centres and counseling facilities available to assist those in need,” she said.
Drugs have continued to be a major concern in the country, and the organization aims to implement comprehensive strategies to combat substance abuse and provide support for affected individuals.
Mr Tatenda Muneta, a local who survived drug addiction, came forward to share his testimony and express his concerns during the walk
“My advice to the youth is that they should do away with using drugs as an escape route from unemployment and depression,” he said.
“It’s best to start a business by selling tomatoes or second-hand clothing, as it can be a distraction from stress.”
In an interview with Chronicle, Mr Martin Nyathi who is the founder of Arise Zimbabwe, emphasized that their goal is to encourage resistance to drug and substance abuse among all the youths in the community.
“We want an anti-drug country and to promote that, today we are handing out water and oranges to all youths as the first step in promoting a healthy lifestyle,” he said.
He also encouraged teamwork within the community to eliminate drug abuse as a way to improve public health and create a safer environment for everyone.
While Zimbabwe has made strides in addressing substance abuse through policy initiatives, community programmes, and awareness campaigns, substantial challenges do remain, as strengthening mental health services, enforcing drug control policies, and fostering community support are vital steps towards mitigating the impacts of substance abuse.
