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Liberty Dube
Post Correspondent
THE Seventh Day Adventist Church has intensified efforts to conscientise youths against drug and substance abuse through holding awareness campaigns in Mutare.
SDA Dangamvura last Saturday kick-started the programme by holding a successful campaign at Mukwena Shops in the suburb.
The event was attended by scores of people, among them youths.
It was held under the theme ‘Say No to Drugs’.
Youths from the church who were elegantly dressed showcased some well-choreographed acts and drills which drew the attention of many people as messages against indulging in drugs were conveyed.
In an interview, SDA Dangamvura leaders were elated with the turn-out, saying plans are afoot to hold bigger campaigns in Mutare’s Central Business District.
“This was a successful outing which was meant to conscientise youths about the drug and substance abuse which is now rampant among youths. We are here to conscientise them about the adverse effects of abuse of drugs, the devastating effects of indulging in illicit drugs and how it affects their future.
“We have been targeting youths from the age of 13 to 21. We have managed to lure several youths through activities like today’s programme. We also took the opportunity to encourage even young kids to grow up knowing the dangers of drugs and how they can affect their lives. We are happy that our engagement with the youths was fruitful,” said Pastor Innocent Banga.
Pastor John Chirume chipped in: “We are glad that the event went on very well. This was our first campaign and we look forward to having another one in May. We will have such programmes in areas around Mutare as we engage the youths in the fight against drug abuse.”
The campaign came a week after scores of youths from across the country converged in Harare for the National Youth Day commemorations — a day set aside to recognise and celebrate the contributions made by Zimbabwe’s young people in building the country.
Drug and substance abuse among young people is on the rise and research shows that it is prevalent in urban areas and above 57 percent among young people.
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