Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
IN a powerful blend of music, message and mission, dendera artiste, Tryson Chimbetu, has launched a life-changing nationwide campaign — “I Survived So You Can” — meant to raise awareness about drug and substance abuse among youths.
A survivor himself, Chimbetu is using his voice, talent and influence to fight one of the growing social challenges in the country.
Chimbetu, known for his soulful dendera rhythms and artistic lineage as a member of the musical dynasty, is now transforming his stage into a platform for advocacy.
His new mission is deeply personal — rooted in his own experience with the dark world of substance abuse, a battle that almost cost him his life and career.
“I have walked through that storm. I know what it is like to lose focus, lose friends, and lose yourself.
“But I also know that recovery is possible. I survived — and I want every young person out there to know that they can survive too,” said Chimbetu.
The campaign blends live performances, motivational talks, and community engagements in schools and youth centres across the country.
The tour officially kicks off on November 1, at Red Apple Entertainment Hub in Odzi, where he will take the stage, not only to perform, but to speak directly to fans about the dangers of drug use.
The journey continues on November 8 at Crèche Yemadhara Joint in Dangamvura, before moving to other cities and growth points.
Each show will be more than music — it will be a dialogue.
Chimbetu plans to share his personal journey of recovery, while health professionals, counsellors, and social workers will provide practical guidance on prevention and rehabilitation.
Drug and substance abuse have become a major public health concern in Zimbabwe, especially among youth.
Substances such as crystal meth (mutoriro), broncleer, marijuana, and illegal cough syrups have found their way into schools and communities, destroying lives and futures.
Many young people turn to drugs due to unemployment, peer pressure, and depression, seeking temporary escape from the pressures of life — but often ending up trapped in cycles of addiction.
The consequences have been devastating. Families have been torn apart, crime rates have surged, and a whole generation risks being lost to addiction.
For artistes like Chimbetu, who once witnessed how drugs can derail talent and dreams, this fight is not just social — it is spiritual and cultural.
“Music has power. The same way it can entertain, it can heal. Through this campaign, I want to use music to restore hope, to help young people see that there is a better way to deal with pain than through drugs,” he said.
The band’s programmes manager, Roek Hwata, who is overseeing the coordination of community outreach activities, emphasised the importance of using creative figures in this national fight.
He said the campaign aims, not only to raise awareness, but also to break stigma.
“Many young people who use drugs are scared to seek help because of judgement. What we are doing with this tour is creating safe spaces for conversation, counselling, and support.
“When someone like Tryson — who is admired by the youth — says he went through it and came out stronger, it changes everything. It gives hope,” he said.
Hwata said the industry has a unique role in social transformation.
“Artistes have voices that reach far beyond classrooms or clinics. When they use that influence for good, the impact multiples.
“We are proud to have Tryson leading this initiative,” he said, adding that the campaign will include mentorship programmes and rehabilitation linkages.
“We will have sessions where youths can engage with counsellors after the shows. We are working with rehabilitation centres to ensure that those who need help are referred immediately. This is not just about talking — it is about saving lives.”
The “I Survived So You Can” initiative will also include a documentary project chronicling Chimbetu’s journey and testimonies from other survivors of drug abuse.
Plans are underway to partner with schools, colleges, and churches to host open discussions and awareness drives throughout the tour.
Hwata said the approach is what makes the campaign different.
“We are combining entertainment, education, and empowerment. Music brings the crowd, but once they are there, we give them knowledge and tools to make better choices,” he said.
The team hopes that by the end of the tour, thousands of young people will have been reached, inspired, and supported toward positive living.
For Chimbetu, the campaign marks a new chapter in his life — one defined by purpose. His new songs, many of which will be performed during the tour, carry messages of resilience, healing, and faith. He believes that the best way to influence youth is through relatable storytelling wrapped in melody and rhythm.
As the sun sets over Red Apple on November 1, Chimbetu will stand on stage — not just as a dendera artiste, but as a survivor, mentor, and advocate.
His mission is clear: to turn his pain into power, and his music into medicine.
