Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
SPORT is increasingly being used as a tool to combat drug and substance abuse in communities, with 50 football and netball teams participating in an awareness tournament in Chivi North Constituency.
The event, held at Jenya Primary School, brought together scores of young people from across the constituency for an anti-drug and substance abuse campaign organised by the area legislator, Honourable Godfrey Mukungunugwa, in partnership with the ZANU PF affiliate, Men BelievED.
Beyond the sporting competition, the tournament served as a platform for youth engagement, providing participants with opportunities to interact, exchange ideas and receive information on the dangers of drug and substance abuse, as well as other social challenges affecting young people.
Participants said the initiative enabled them to showcase their talents while strengthening social networks and raising awareness.
“It was a great day for us as youths in the area. We had an opportunity to participate alongside teams from various wards across the constituency. The tournament allowed us to interact, make new friends and showcase our talents, which is important for young people,” said Ashley Dhunatuna.
Another participant, Learn Tarwirei, welcomed efforts by Government and local leadership to empower youths in rural communities.
“As youths, we are pleased that our leadership and the Government continue to prioritise young people, including those of us in rural communities. Through the tournament, we learned about critical issues affecting youths, including drug and substance abuse, early marriages and gender-based violence, among other social challenges,” he said.
Nora Chidyamakono said the tournament delivered both educational and practical benefits.
“Through the tournament, we received medals and monetary prizes, which will benefit many young people. We are also encouraged by Government initiatives such as youth business units and irrigation schemes, which are creating opportunities for youths in rural communities,” she said.
Honourable Mukungunugwa said drug and substance abuse had become a growing concern in both urban and rural communities, making preventive interventions increasingly important.
“Drug and substance abuse is no longer confined to urban areas. We are also facing this challenge among youths in villages and rural business centres.
“We are encouraged to see young people actively participating in sport because an idle mind is vulnerable to negative influences, including drug and substance abuse. As leaders, we want to create opportunities that keep our youths occupied, productive and focused on their future,” he said.
Men BelievED National Chairperson, Cde Vicky Zvenyika, said sport remains an effective platform for engaging young people and promoting positive lifestyles.
“As Men BelievED, we remain committed to supporting young people through various initiatives, including sport, mentorship programmes and awareness campaigns that promote healthy and productive lifestyles.
“We are also establishing community gardens and providing life-skills training for youths. These efforts support President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision of empowering young people to actively participate in national development programmes,” he said.
All participating teams received medals, sports kits and monetary prizes in recognition of their involvement in the tournament.
