Nqobile Bhebhe in Maphisa
HUNDREDS of young people from across Matabeleland South have converged at Maphisa Stadium for the annual KCD Mohadi Sports Tournament, with sport taking centre stage in efforts to combat drug and substance abuse among youths.
Organised by the ZANU PF Youth League, the tournament has brought together 12 teams competing in football and netball, providing a platform for young people to showcase their sporting talents while promoting healthy lifestyles and positive community engagement.
The tournament also forms part of celebrations marking the birthday of Vice-President Kembo Mohadi, who was born on November 15, 1949, in Beitbridge, Matabeleland South.
Beyond the sporting competitions, the event is being used to raise awareness of the dangers of drug and substance abuse, which remains a major concern among young people and a threat to the country’s social and economic development.
The initiative complements Government’s broader efforts to address the problem after President Mnangagwa declared drug and substance abuse a national disaster, prompting a multi-sectoral response involving prevention, law enforcement, treatment and rehabilitation.
Through sporting activities, organisers are seeking to encourage youths to channel their energy into productive pursuits, develop their abilities and participate meaningfully in community development.
Sport provides an important platform for youth engagement, offering alternatives to harmful social activities while fostering discipline, teamwork, physical fitness and a sense of belonging.
Zimbabwe has also strengthened its legislative framework to deal with drug-related offences, with several laws providing for the control of dangerous substances and prosecution of offenders.
The Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act (Chapter 9:23), particularly Sections 156 and 157, criminalises the unlawful dealing in, possession and use of dangerous drugs.
The legislation provides for imprisonment and fines, with stiffer penalties for drug dealing committed under aggravating circumstances.
The Dangerous Drugs Act [Chapter 15:02] also regulates the importation, exportation, production, possession, sale, distribution and use of dangerous drugs.
Meanwhile, the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act (Chapter 15:03) provides for the regulation and control of medicines and pharmaceutical substances.
While law enforcement and legislation remain important in tackling the problem, community-based initiatives such as the KCD Mohadi Sports Tournament provide an additional avenue for prevention by engaging young people through activities that promote positive behaviour.
The football and netball finals was be preceded by a marathon, adding another dimension to the sporting activities and encouraging participation in physical fitness.
Andrew Dick won the KCD Mohadi Half Marathon in Maphisa.
The Kudadisa Fast and Furious athlete crossed the finish line in 1 hour, 6 minutes, and 11 seconds, beating stiff competition from Mr Pace’s Isaac Langat, who finished second in 1 hour and 7 minutes.
The gathering underscores the potential of sport to complement national efforts to address drug and substance abuse while nurturing young talent and strengthening community participation
