Online Reporter
Langelihle S Nyathi,[email protected]
THE Family Covenant Church, in partnership with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Narcotics Department, successfully wrapped up the school term with a vibrant end-of-term colleges rally at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre.
The event attracted a large crowd of students from various schools across the city.
Notable guests included poet Sthandazile Dube, former broadcaster and drug and substance abuse activist Oscar Pambuka, alongside captivating performances from the award-winning youth choir Vocal EX and the acclaimed all-male a cappella gospel group, Family Voices.
Celebrating their 25th anniversary, Family Voices, together with Vocal EX, delivered powerful anti-drug messages through their music, blending hope and restoration with every song.
Their performances deeply resonated with the audience.
Dube moved the crowd with a heartfelt poem, raising awareness about drug abuse, its impact on families, and the importance of making positive choices.
“A roof shall be found for your acts, and there is always a cause for an addiction,” she said.
Pambuka, once a prominent television personality, shared his personal struggle with addiction.
“I was a prominent television personnel, a bright student, who started reporting national news at the age of 16, came out with 12A and 2Bs in ordinary level and 13 points at advanced level. But all that came crashing and crumbling when my wife, for nine years decided to divorce me. I could not take it neither could I share it with anyone. Hence, I found a new companion, I turned to drugs.”
Pambuka recounted how his arrest on January 19, 2023, became a turning point in his life. Prison became the rehabilitation center he needed.
Speaking at the rally, Constable Detective Mudzimu from the CID Narcotics unit, revealed that the “Yes to Jesus, No to Drugs” campaign has already reached over 25 schools in Bulawayo.
“Mr Pambuka’s story is a powerful example. He used stimulants, depressants, and even the drug which is deemed the most dangerous drug in Zimbabwe crystal meth.”
She praised the Family Covenant Church for initiating the campaign, noting that Bulawayo is the first province to embrace it on such a scale.
Overseer Kamba Nleya, quoting the story of Goliath, urged students to adopt an attitude of humility and transformation.
Students who attended shared their enthusiasm about the event.
