‘Youth participation in sports will solve drug problem’

PREMIER Soccer League (PSL) boss Kenny Ndebele believes youth participation in sports is a solution to the growing cancer of drug and substance abuse.

The use of drugs has been a topical issue of late in the country.

The use of harmful drugs and substances by youths is increasing daily.

Addressing mourners at the burial of the late former Highlanders striker Patrick Mboma Mpofu last Friday, Ndebele took time to engage the youth, football players, parents and community leaders on the issue of drug abuse.

“I want to speak to young boys about the issue of drug and substance abuse which is destroying the young generation. We are seeing young children publicly getting involved in these drug and substance abuse acts which is of concern. Parents and church leaders have a huge task in our hands to try and encourage these young kids to get into sport.

Yes, there is education to consider but we all cannot be number one in class. Some are not gifted academically but when it comes to sport they are exceptional so it is our duty as parents to encourage our kids to participate in sport,” said Ndebele.

He said the girl child should also get involved in sport.

“We want the girl child to also get involved in sport so they are not be left behind. It is my wish to see council facilities that were meant for sport serving their purpose and being used for sport,” said Ndebele.

Zimbabwe recently declared drug and substance abuse a national disaster and swift mitigation measures are being put in place to deal with the escalating problem.

As the country is fighting the drug pandemic, sports activities are also playing a vital role in reducing the drug problem.

Sports provide life skills training that gives one resilience against risky and anti-social behaviour. –@innocentskizoe