By Heather Buzuzi
Mutare, Chikanga, 16 June 2015 – A vibrant Drug Awareness Program held on Saturday in Chikanga brought together community leaders, youth groups, and concerned citizens in a united stand against the growing menace of substance abuse.
The event, which began with an energetic march from TM Chikanga, Sports Field led by a drama group from Chikanga Primary School, culminated in an impactful gathering at Chikanga Youth Centre where stakeholders delivered stirring speeches on the dangers of drug abuse and the need for collective action.
Chikanga Constituency Member of Parliament and guest of honor, Hon. Lynnette Karenyi, set the tone with a powerful address highlighting the devastating effects of drug abuse on individuals, families, and society.
“What starts as experimentation or peer pressure often becomes a silent, deadly addiction,” she warned, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and education.
Her comprehensive recommendations included strengthening drug education in schools and homes, creating safe spaces for open dialogue, improving access to rehabilitation services, and promoting youth engagement in sports and arts as alternatives to substance abuse. She particularly stressed the need for community vigilance, urging residents to work with law enforcement to curb drug trafficking while focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Workers Union (ZIDAWU) added its voice through representative Whitney Chinowawa, who delivered an emotional appeal for action. “We are watching too many of our brothers and sisters slip away,” she said, positioning ZIDAWU as a champion for youth welfare and calling for the creation of support systems for those struggling with addiction.
The Manica Youth Assembly (MAYA) further enriched the discussion through Beaular Mushambi, who drew attention to the dangerous link between drug abuse and gender-based violence while lamenting its impact on education. “If youths spend their time stuck on drugs, where’s the future?” she challenged the audience, urging both parents and young people to take responsibility in the fight against substance abuse.
The well attended event saw participation from local councillors Sarah Manjeya, Zvichauta Mukombero, Patrick Masenyama, Gift Chatikobo, and Sekai Bete Mukodza , alongside various church groups and non-governmental organizations, demonstrating the community’s united front against this pressing issue.
As the program concluded, the resounding call was for sustained action beyond the day’s events, with stakeholders encouraging ongoing dialogue and grassroots initiatives to create a drug-free future for Chikanga’s youth.
The gathering served as both a wake-up call and a roadmap, combining hard truths about addiction with practical solutions and a strong message of hope for the community.
