Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa
Herald Reporter
THE Seventh-day Adventist, in partnership with the National Aids Council and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, recently held a community-driven initiative to promote health and wellness, while also addressing drug abuse and HIV prevention.
Through a range of activities, including a book launch and distribution and counselling services, the event sought to educate and empower the community, with the ZRP and NAC providing insights on the link between drug abuse, HIV and mental health issues.
NAC provincial manager for Harare Metropolitan, Mr Adonija Muzondiona, said youths abusing drugs tended to be exposed to sexual harassment and violence.
“Some of them are being chased away from home by their parents, they can be involved in stealing, robbing and even murder because of the condition that they will be in,” he said.
“They can actually indulge in sexual activities without reasoning, meaning they do not get any protection and by so doing, this is where HIV can spread from one person to another,” he said.
“They can have as many partners as they choose, which can lead to issues like unwanted pregnancies and cancers that may result because of certain drugs. So let us try to avoid the spread of HIV by making sure that we educate the youth, the parents and work together with key government institutions so that the youth can be occupied either through income-generating projects, through skills training, as well as church advocacy.”
The Seventh-day Adventist Church and its partners distributed hundreds of copies of health and wellness books at TM Complex in Ruwa.
Meanwhile, Seventh-day Adventist Church Chiremba Central District Pastor Tafadzwa Muzamhindo said that a spiritual connection to the word of God is needed for an individual to avoid taking drugs and substances.
“It is only through a close relationship with God and His teachings that we can overcome the temptation to turn to drugs,” he said.
“The Bible offers wisdom and comfort for those who seek to escape from addiction and walk the path of righteousness.
“Let us embrace God’s word as a source of strength and support during this difficult journey.”
ZRP Harare East District public relations officer Sergeant Mirriam Pundo said the community should report anonymously on drug and substance abusers as well as drug lords.“
To effectively address the issue of drug abuse in our community, we rely on the support of the public,” she said.
“If you see someone engaging in suspicious activities, or are aware of individuals involved in drug dealing, please report them to the police anonymously. Moreover, I urge parents to spend more time with their children. Have frequent conversations with them about their daily lives and the influences they encounter.”
