Online Reporter
Peter Matika
COLOUR, music and powerful messages filled the streets of Bulawayo on Thursday morning as police officers, church leaders and community members marched through the city to commemorate Culture Month, while raising awareness against drug and substance abuse, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and domestic violence.
The vibrant procession, which started at Drill Hall and ended at City Hall, drew the attention of bystanders and motorists as participants sang, danced and waved placards carrying anti-drug and anti-violence messages.
The procession was led by Superintendent Theodorah Mbambo, the Acting District Criminal Investigation Officer in Bulawayo, alongside Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele.
Speaking during the commemorations, Superintendent Mbambo said culture should be used as a tool to promote unity, discipline and positive values in society.
“Culture is the foundation of our identity as a people. As police and churches, we are working together to promote peace, unity and moral values while discouraging crime, drug abuse and violence in our communities,” she said.
Inspector Msebele urged communities to take collective responsibility in protecting families and youths from social ills.
“We are deeply concerned by the increasing cases of drug and substance abuse, domestic violence and abuse against children. Communities must work closely with law enforcement agencies and churches to fight these challenges,” she said.
Insp Msebele also warned against the use of dangerous skin-lightening creams and body enhancement substances, saying some products being sold illegally could have devastating health consequences.
“Some people are risking their lives through the use of illicit skin products and body enhancement chemicals. These products can cause permanent disability, severe health complications and even death. Members of the public should avoid using unregulated products,” said Insp Msebele.
Pastor Sibusisiwe Buzuzi condemned Gender-Based Violence, saying society must protect women, men and children from abuse.
“Violence destroys families and communities. We must teach love, respect and peaceful conflict resolution in homes and churches. No woman, man or child deserves to live in fear,” she said.
Detective Constable Doreen Mudzimu from the CID Drugs and Narcotics Unit warned youths against experimenting with drugs, saying many dangerous substances were destroying lives and futures.
“Drug abuse does not only affect the individual but entire families and communities. Some drugs cause permanent mental illness, organ failure and violent behaviour. Young people must stay away from drugs and focus on building productive futures,” she said.
She added that police were intensifying awareness campaigns and operations targeting drug dealers and peddlers.
Detective Assistant Inspector Lethubuhle Sibanda spoke strongly against domestic violence and rape, saying children exposed to abuse often suffer long-term emotional trauma.
“When children grow up witnessing violence in the home, it affects their emotional and psychological development. Domestic violence and rape cases leave lasting scars on victims and families,” she said.
Professor Nathaniel KudakwaMwari, the chief psychologist from Doctors on the Move, said drugs were tearing apart communities and contributing to mental health problems.
“Drugs alter the normal functioning of the brain and body. We are seeing increasing cases of depression, psychosis, aggression and social breakdown linked to substance abuse. Communities must prioritise prevention, counselling and rehabilitation,” he said.
Members of the public applauded and joined in song and dance as the procession moved through the streets, turning the awareness campaign into a lively cultural celebration.
Many motorists hooted in support while vendors and pedestrians stopped to watch the colourful spectacle that blended traditional culture, gospel music and anti-drug advocacy messages.
The commemorations come at a time when authorities and community organisations are intensifying efforts to combat rising cases of drug and substance abuse, domestic violence and other social challenges affecting communities across the country.
