Chronicle Editor
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
RELIGIOUS leaders in Beitbridge have pledged to complement Government efforts in fighting crime and enhance peace building initiatives from the grassroots.
The leaders from various denominations met recently to discuss cross-cutting issues with the main focus being on fighting drugs and substance abuse among the youths.
They also agreed to play a leading role in maintaining peace within communities as the nation prepares for harmonised elections next year.
In a meeting which was also attended by Beitbridge East legislator Cde Albert Nguluvhe, the pastors said it was critical for them to be proactive.
“We are gathered here under the banner of the Beitbridge pastors’ fraternity and we want to give the full support to our Government so that we continue to enjoy this peaceful environment before, during and after elections,” said Pastor Busani Moyo, the chairperson of the pastors’ fraternity.
He said of major concern is an increase in the youths who are into crime linked to drugs abuse.
“We believe that with our support and that from the general community, we will be able to minimise this vice,” said Pastor Moyo.
Pastors for ED chairperson in Beitbridge, Henisi Muzopa said they had also started rolling out capacity building initiatives at local schools to minimise cases of drug abuse among youths.
He said it was critical for them as religious leaders to take a lead in enhancing unity of purpose which should cascade to every household.
Pastor Muzopa said for Government programmes to be fully implemented, there is a need to create a peaceful environment.
“This can be achieved when we start uniting as religious leaders regardless of our doctrines and focus on unity and maintaining social coherence.
“We can only succeed in building our country if there is unity of purpose and a shared vision among citizens. We have all agreed here that we have a bigger role as church leaders to preach peace to our congregants,” he said.
Pastor Muzopa said they had seen it necessary to meet regularly and discuss cross-cutting issues rather than wait for the elections period.
Pastor Righteous Nyathi said they had a bigger role to play in the community considering that women carry the bigger social burden.
She said more empowerment initiatives should be rolled out to help the girl child realise her potential and keep her away from social ills such as drug abuse and related crimes.
“As women we feel we need to play a role in maintaining peace within the family and entire community. We want to ensure a peaceful environment in our district and beyond,” she said.
According to Pastor Elfania Ngwenya, the problem of drug abuse begins at household level hence the need to collaborate with everyone including the Government in reducing its effects.
She said they have many youth interaction programmes to discourage crime by keeping young people occupied and empowered.
Beitbridge East legislator, Cde Nguluvhe said a peaceful environment was critical in promoting investment in the country.
He said the task of maintaining peace cannot be left to Government alone hence the need for religious leaders to play their part.
Online Reporter