Story by Gay Matambo
SPORT is emerging as a powerful tool in Chiredzi to combat crime and address the rising challenges of drug and substance abuse among young people.
A three-day sports gala held at Tshovani Stadium brought together more than ten soccer and netball teams from across the district. The event aimed not only to nurture local sporting talent but also to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse, which has become a growing concern in urban and peri-urban communities.
“Such events take us away from the streets because to excel in sport, you have to stay disciplined and avoid alcohol and harmful substances.
“We appreciate such programmes because they make us better people in society,” beneficiaries said.
I am happy to have come first in the marathon. These events keep us safe from drug abuse,” an athlete said.
The Chiredzi District Sports Association plans to expand the initiative to other parts of the district.
“We are likely to hold similar events across Chiredzi. Our aim is to keep youths occupied and away from drugs. About 150 participants took part, with some coming from as far as Harare and Mutare. We hope to grow this event in the future,” Chiredzi District Sports Association Chairperson, Mr Happyson Jasi said.
Speaking on the sidelines of the gala, Chiredzi Town Chairperson, Councillor Jameson Charumbira, outlined plans to rehabilitate Tshovani Stadium as part of efforts to boost local sports development.
“In the 2026 budget, we plan to rehabilitate this stadium, drill boreholes, and introduce an annual marathon to encourage fitness and steer youths away from drugs,” he said.
The government recently gazetted the National Drug Abuse Control and Enforcement Bill as part of ongoing efforts to tackle the drug menace threatening the country’s moral fabric.
