Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
RURAL youths have called upon legislators to advocate for the establishment of more recreational facilities in communities if the war against drug and substance abuse is to be won.
This came out at a sports tournament held between the Parliament of Zimbabwe and Gutu South community this Saturday.
The tournament was a day to remember for the community as they interacted with Legislators and Parliament of Zimbabwe staff through sport at Maungwa grounds.
The platform which saw them playing soccer, netball, and volleyball was an opportunity to discuss and share ideas on issues that affect youths, especially drug and substance abuse.
“It was a great experience today playing games alongside Members of Parliament. They humbled themselves, and we learnt a lot from them, especially on the dangers of drug and substance abuse,” said one participant at the tournament.
“As we were playing netball, we also discussed issues around empowerment of young women and girls. They told us about available opportunities for us to be empowered hence we are excited for this opportunity,” said another.
Legislators who participated at the event pledged to continue joining hands in the fight against drug and substance abuse, citing the need for more recreational facilities for youths and punitive laws for drug peddlers.
Gutu South Legislator Honourable Pupurai Togarepi who hosted the event said the goal is to empower and unite youths through sports.
“We are excited to host this event as Gutu South, and my goal has always been to see young people being empowered.
“Issues of drug and substance abuse have become a threat to the development of communities, and by hosting sporting activities, we are trying to divert their attention to productive issues. We also invited sports officials such that they also identify talent among our youths,” he said.
Gutu South teams dominated the tournament after winning in soccer and netball, while the Parliament of Zimbabwe team won in volleyball.
The government has since employed a whole-of-society approach to decisively deal with the scourge of drugs and substance abuse.
Recently, President Emmerson Mnangagwa launched the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse 2024-2030 Plan.
