Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
CALLS for stiffer penalties against drug peddlers are growing louder as communities continue to grapple with the devastating effects of drug and substance abuse.
In Chivi South, residents took to the streets this Tuesday in a peaceful march, later engaging in sporting activities aimed at raising awareness about the dangers associated with drug misuse.
The initiative drew wide participation from youths, parents and local leaders.
The usually quiet Ngundu area in Masvingo came alive as the community joined hands with the Retrievers of Hope Youth Association to amplify the message against drugs.
Organisers said the campaign is part of ongoing efforts to educate the public, strengthen community resilience and advocate for stronger measures to curb the supply of illicit substances.
The rallying call is for stiffer penalties against drug peddlers.
“As young people, we are happy to be part of this programme which is raising awareness on drug and substance abuse. The problem is not rampant even in rural communities, and many are now affected, hence engaging in criminal activities,” a participant, Chiedza Chikungure said.
“Many of us spend the whole day today occupied in sporting activities.
We had football teams, netball and volleyball. These are very key for us as they keep many of us busy away from drugs,” a youth, Admire Matewe said.
“As Retrievers of Hope Youth Association, we continue to raise awareness on the dangers of drug and substance abuse. Today we are in Chivi, where we are supporting them in calling for stiffer penalties against drug peddlers,” a club member, Nyasha Khumbula said.
Area legislator, Honourable Felix Maburutse, was in the thick of things, highlighting the importance of recreational facilities in fighting drug and substance abuse.
“We are organising these sporting activities to mobilise our youths and the community at large, raising awareness on the dangers of drug abuse. We want our youth to be part of the country’s development mantra, hence these efforts. Our long-term plans are to have more recreational facilities,” he said.
The event attracted other legislators who challenged youths to take part in development programmes being implemented by the Second Republic.
“It is disheartening to see how families are suffering when children are affected by drugs. Here we are urging women who are pillars of families to continuously check on their children and teach them about the dangers of drugs,” Chivi Women’s Quota Member of Parliament, Honourable Faith Makaza said,
“Youth are the most affected group when it comes to drug abuse. However, we thank President Emmerson Mnangagwa for coming up with various empowerment programmes for the youths. We continue to ensure that we engage them,” Masvingo Youth Quota Member of Parliament, Honourable Naledi Maunganidze said.
The government is implementing a number of programmes in fighting drug and substance abuse, including the establishment of rehabilitation centres across the country.
