Peter Tanyanyiwa
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Herald Correspondent
HUNDREDS of residents, business leaders, and wellness advocates converged at Chiremba Grounds in Ruwa on Friday and Saturday for a two-day event that blended business networking, health promotion and a powerful stand against drug and substance abuse.
The Ruwa Wellness Day and Business Expo, headlined by the inaugural Mayor’s Marathon, marked a significant moment for the fast-growing town.
The event, which began on Friday, September 26, with a bustling Business Expo, provided a platform for local enterprises to showcase their products, network and explore new partnerships.
“We wanted a place where businesses in Ruwa can interface, can network and know what each of them are doing,” explained Josephine Mwaitirwa, Public Relations Officer for the Ruwa Local Board.
“It’s not easy, but this is how we build a stronger, more connected community.”
Exhibitors ranged from established companies to emerging startups, with organisations such as ProBrands, FBM Haulage, Bakers Inn, among the notable participants. Financial institutions including ZB Bank and POSB were also present, offering financial literacy sessions and promoting economic inclusion. Instacare, a leading healthcare provider, offered free health checks, while other partners provided wellness products, refreshments, and educational materials.
Ruwa Mayor Councillor Michael Mataruka, who has championed Ruwa’s drive for town status and inclusive development, officially opened the expo.
“Ruwa is open for business, and we are committed to creating an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive and residents can access the services they need,” he said. “Events like this are about more than just business—they are about building a healthy, prosperous future for all.”
Saturday’s activities shifted focus to wellness and community health, with the inaugural Ruwa Mayor’s Marathon drawing runners from across the district. The event featured 21km, 10km, and 5km races, all starting at different points but finishing at Chiremba Grounds. Buses ferried participants from key locations as early as 5:15am, and each runner received a race pack with a T-shirt and number tag.
The marathon was not just a test of endurance but a rallying cry against the scourge of drug and substance abuse—a crisis that has gripped communities across Zimbabwe.
“As Ruwa, we are taking a stand against drug abuse,” declared Mayor Mataruka at the starting line.
“We are running for our youth, for our families, and for the future of our town. This is about showing that we can choose health, unity, and hope over addiction and despair.”
The theme, “Running Against Drug Abuse,” resonated deeply with participants and spectators alike. Free Zumba sessions, health screenings, and surprise performances by local artists added to the festive atmosphere, while soccer tournaments and exhibitions kept the crowd engaged throughout the day.
The urgency of the event’s anti-drug message was underscored by sobering national statistics. According to a 2025 survey, 79% of Zimbabweans say drug and substance abuse is prevalent in their communities, with more than half strongly agreeing with this assessment. As of August 2024, one in every 30 households in Zimbabwe is directly affected by drug abuse, impacting over half a million people nationwide.
Mayor Mataruka addressed these challenges head-on: “We cannot ignore the pain that drugs and substance abuse are causing in our homes and schools. But we also cannot fight this battle alone. That’s why we are bringing together businesses, health professionals, and the whole community. Together, we can create opportunities, support recovery, and give our young people a reason to hope.”
The Ruwa Wellness Day aligns with broader national efforts to combat drug abuse.
Zimbabwe’s recently launched Multisectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030) represents a shift from punitive approaches to comprehensive, community-based strategies. The plan emphasizes prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and reintegration, with a special focus on youth and mental health.
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