Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, [email protected]
AS Zimbabwe intensifies its fight against drug and substance abuse, Mr and Miss Rural Zimbabwe contestants have been actively campaigning against the scourge since last year’s provincial finals in Avoca, Filabusi, Matabeleland South.
The country is facing a growing crisis of drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people. The widespread use of illicit substances such as crystal meth (commonly known as mutoriro or guka), marijuana, broncleer (a cough syrup with codeine) and other synthetic drugs has raised concerns among authorities, communities and health experts.
As part of the campaign, which uses creative arts to spread awareness, the models are speaking out against this vice and incorporating costume designs featuring imitations of various drugs to symbolise the dangers of substance abuse at the events and platforms they attend.
Miss Rural Zimbabwe founder Sipho Mazibuko, stressed the importance of using engaging mediums to connect with young people.
“We’re using fashion to raise awareness about drug and substance abuse. We’re also incorporating comedy, modelling and entertainment because young people are drawn to these platforms. By using a medium they relate to, the message is received faster and more effectively.
“That’s why we selected a model who can act as both a drug addict and a drunkard to illustrate the dangers vividly,” she said.
One of the contestants, Margaret Mangowe from Masvingo, said the initiative is aimed at educating their peers on the consequences of drug abuse.
“Through acting, I’m teaching the young generation to stay away from drugs and alcohol. Many young people turn to these substances to escape their problems, not realising they’re ruining their lives.
“Drug abuse has become common in schools, leading to embarrassment and even crime,” Mangowe said.
Peggy Ngwendu, a contestant from Mbembesi, Matabeleland North, echoed similar sentiments, stating that drug abuse is a major threat to the future of the youth.
“Drugs have destroyed many young lives, but I believe there’s a solution. One of the biggest challenges facing youth today is unemployment. When young people are idle, they often turn to drugs. If we create opportunities that keep them busy and engaged, we can reduce substance abuse cases,” Ngwendu said.
The models believe their campaign, which will continue until the pageant hosts its national finals later this year, will empower the youth and contribute to efforts to curb drug abuse.
So far, they have taken their message to Matabeleland North and Masvingo provinces and had the opportunity to reach a broader audience during the National Youth Day celebrations in Bulawayo last month.
Unemployment and peer pressure have contributed to the rise in substance abuse, affecting both urban and rural areas. The government has intensified efforts to tackle drug and substance abuse through various policies, initiatives and collaborations and initiatives like Mazibuko’s certainly go a long way.
Authorities have also strengthened laws against drug trafficking and distribution, leading to increased arrests of drug dealers and suppliers, with more and more being arrested almost daily.
This fight requires a collective effort, and with these ongoing initiatives and strengthened policies, there is hope that the country will reduce drug abuse and protect future generations.
