Online Reporter
Lloyd Makonya
Correspondent
AS the national fight against drug and substance abuse gathers momentum, prominent Nyanga traditional healer, Sekuru Shingirai Mukotsanjera, has joined the chorus of voices urging young people to reject harmful habits and embrace Zimbabwean cultural values.
Sekuru Mukotsanjera used the recently held Manicaland Provincial Culture Week Launch at Chief Hata’s homestead to speak candidly about the devastating effects of drug abuse on families and communities.
Addressing hundreds of people gathered for the commemorations, Sekuru Mukotsanjera challenged youths to uphold the values of respect, discipline and responsibility that have long been the cornerstone of Zimbabwean society.
He warned that the increasing use of drugs and illicit substances is driving some young people into committing acts that were once considered unthinkable within African communities.
“Our culture teaches us to respect our parents, our elders and the sanctity of human life. However, because of drug abuse, we are now witnessing some young people beating their own parents and engaging in acts that are against our cultural values.
“There are instances where young men are committing sexual offences, even against elderly women in communities. Such actions bring shame, not only to individuals, but also to their families and communities,” he added.
Sekuru Mukotsanjera’s remarks come at a time when Zimbabwe is intensifying efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, an initiative championed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa as part of broader efforts to safeguard the country’s future generations.
The traditional healer also used the platform to educate attendees on the significance of traditional attire and the symbolism attached to different colours and garments such as Jira reRetso within Zimbabwean cultural practices. He cautioned young women against becoming involved in groups and practices whose origins and implications they may not fully understand.
“Young people, especially girls, should exercise caution and seek guidance before associating themselves with certain groups such as “zvemanjuzu”. They must understand what they are getting into and ensure that their actions do not compromise their values and future,” he said.
Widely recognised throughout Manicaland Province, Sekuru Mukotsanjera has built a reputation for mediating and addressing complex spiritual matters within communities.
His work has often involved assisting families in resolving disputes linked to avenging spirits, commonly referred to as ngozi, and participating in traditional processes aimed at restoring harmony where serious transgressions have occurred.
He has also played a role in cultural education programmes, advocating for the preservation of indigenous knowledge systems and encouraging communities to embrace positive aspects of Zimbabwean traditions.
The intervention by traditional leaders and healers in the anti-drug campaign reflects growing recognition that addressing substance abuse requires a collective approach involving Government institutions, religious organisations, families and custodians of culture.
As the country continues its fight against drugs, voices such as Sekuru Mukotsanjera’s serve as a reminder that culture remains a powerful tool in shaping responsible citizens and strengthening the moral fabric of society.
