Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
CHURCHES have been urged to take a leading role in combating drug and substance abuse by strengthening moral guidance and promoting positive values among young people.
The call was made during a week-long Zion Christian Church (ZCC) youth conference held at Mbungo Estates, which brought together thousands of youths from across the country for skills training, awareness programmes and spiritual guidance.
The conference, which ended on Saturday, featured a range of activities including vocational and ICT training, sporting events, church services and awareness campaigns aimed at equipping young people with life skills and encouraging responsible behaviour.
Proceedings concluded with a walkathon against drug and substance abuse and an awards ceremony, with many participants describing the programme as transformative.
“We had a productive week here at Mbungo as youths of the ZCC Church. We had an opportunity to interact and share ideas. We were taught the importance of self-respect, hence the importance of shunning drugs,” participant Wonder Khosa said.
Another youth, Auxilia Sano, said the conference provided practical skills that would help young people become self-reliant.
“I had an opportunity to receive training in ICT this week, whilst my friends were taking part in nurse aid training, sporting activities, and driving. As we go home, we were taught to lead by example, showing others the importance of hard work through starting our own projects,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of ZCC leader Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi, Mr Sanctions Mutendi said the church has a responsibility to mould a disciplined, hardworking and drug-free generation.
“We have got a responsibility as churches to mould the next generation, we must lead by example, hence we had this week-long youth conference where we were teaching our youths about healthy lifestyles, sporting activities, bible teachings, entrepreneurial skills, with some going back home with various skills,” he said.
Guest of honour, Director for Provincial Coordination in the Office of the President and Cabinet for Masvingo Province, Ms Rosemary Chingwe, called on churches to complement government efforts to address social challenges affecting young people.
“As a government, we continue to acknowledge the important role played by the church in nation-building. When we see such gatherings happening, we are guaranteed a productive generation. We continue to partner with churches in raising awareness not only on drug and substance abuse but also against child marriages and other vices,” she said.
The government is working with various stakeholders, including faith-based organisations, to address the growing problem of drug and substance abuse among youths, with plans underway to establish rehabilitation centres across the country.
Organisers said the church remains a critical pillar in shaping responsible and disciplined young people capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
