Online Reporter
Mashudu Mambo, Gender and Health Reporter
THE Bulawayo United Residents Association (Bura) is launching drug awareness campaigns aimed at educating community leaders about the dangers of drug abuse.
The initiative seeks to provide a comprehensive roadmap for these leaders to effectively tackle the issue of substance abuse within their communities.
In an interview, Bura chairperson Mr Winos Dube emphasised the importance of a multi-sectoral approach in addressing the drug crisis.
“The programme we are undertaking is broad, with the goal of creating a drug-free society. We are implementing this initiative in stages. The first phase involves engaging community leaders and members of the residents’ association,” he said.
Mr Dube highlighted that the workshops will orient community leaders on the realities of drug and substance abuse, which is crucial for local leadership to understand the severity of the situation in Bulawayo and beyond.
“Our second target group is the youth and we will educate them in collaboration with other stakeholders,” he added.
“Once community leaders are informed, we will focus on understanding the various challenges faced by young people that contribute to increased drug use.”
Bura is also collaborating with the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) to explore the potential of local recreational centres.
“We are brainstorming on ways to revamp these facilities and create activities that will keep young people engaged so that they are off the streets. Our objective is to see these youth centres thrive and fulfil their role of keeping the youths occupied so that they do not abuse drugs or engage in other societal ills,” Mr Dube said.
He emphasised the need for youth involvement in decision-making processes as they are directly impacted by drug abuse.
“We want to empower young people to express their interests and select the activities they want to engage in. The drug menace threatens future generations since today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders,”he said.
Mr Dube reported a positive response from the community, highlighting the successful outreach in areas such as Luveve suburb.
“We have received significant support, particularly from the elderly who are also adversely affected by the drug crisis. Many crimes, including rape, suicide, murder and domestic violence are committed by individuals under the influence of drugs hence the urgent need for effective solutions,” he added.
BURA is calling on various stakeholders to join their efforts in combating drug and substance abuse menace which is threatening the future of the youth.
