Story by Fungai Jachi
CULTURE and tradition have been identified as powerful, localised safeguards against drug and substance abuse, as cultural practices promote core values such as community accountability, strong moral upbringing, and healthy lifestyle alternatives.
In Mwenezi East, traditional leaders are working closely with political leaders to address drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people, who are the most affected by the growing scourge.
Through a collaborative approach, the leaders aim to strengthen community-based efforts to prevent substance abuse and promote positive values among the youth.
They believe cultural practices and traditions practiced in their villages have helped instill a sense of purpose and identity among the youths, which naturally discourages the use of illicit substances.
“In my village, I do not tolerate youths who abuse drugs. If I see a young person who is drunk, I arrest that person and punish them,” one Chief said.
“The challenge of drug and substance abuse among youths has not really reached our villages because we are a people who still believe in our culture and traditions. So children know and understand what it means to be respectful to parents and to obey what the parents say,” a villager head said.
“They know that there are consequences of failing to abide by the laws of the village, so they behave well,” another Chief said.
Apart from culture and traditions, sport is also used to keep the youth busy.
“As youths, if we get a chance to play sport, it keeps us away from drugs, and also those with real talent might have a chance to pursue sport as a career,” a youth said
“We find that we are no longer idle. We have something to keep us healthy, and we actually look forward to these games,” a participant said.
The local political leadership says unity of purpose against drug and substance abuse will not only protect the youths but will also propel development in communities.
“Although the scourge has not hit us hard, we are taking measures to ensure we denounce the practice in our communities. Sport has been keeping our youths busy, but also the village heads have been serious about upholding cultural norms and values, and that has really helped,” Councilor Ward 5 Mwenezi East, Mr David Masvina said.
“ We decided to introduce sports tournaments so that the youths have something to occupy them. We do not want drugs and substance abuse to destroy lives, so we are working together with traditional leaders to ensure we prevent the scourge in our communities. From time to time, we bring advocacy groups to talk to learners and the community so that they appreciate the dangers of drug and substance abuse,” Mwenezi East legislator, Honourable Sheila Chikomo said.
In Zimbabwe, issues related to drug and substance abuse are coordinated through a multi-sectoral approach combining public health and strict law enforcement.
Key initiatives include the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030), the establishment of a dedicated enforcement agency, the opening of numerous rehabilitation centers, and targeted border control operations.
