Bringing Awareness to Drug and Substance Abuse Through Social Campaigns

Saturday, March 15, 2025, was a day I chose to collaborate with others to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse among our youth in Binga Centre. Countless young people are experimenting with dangerous substances, and I felt compelled to take action. Alongside members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), health personnel, and the Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Church, we organized a march to educate the community on the devastating effects of drug and substance abuse. I strongly believe that we all have a role to play in shaping a generation that is empowered and actively involved in nation-building.

News reports and firsthand experiences have shown me the harsh reality—many young people, both globally and within our Zimbabwean communities, are losing their lives due to drug abuse. This alarming trend motivated me to take part in this initiative. During the march, I urged young people to avoid drugs and alcohol, emphasizing that a fulfilling and meaningful life can be enjoyed without substance use. Our goal was to create awareness, reduce drug abuse cases, and guide our youth toward a brighter future. The SDA members, ZRP officers, and health professionals reinforced this message, offering valuable advice to the community.

On Sunday, March 16, 2025, we extended our efforts with a clean-up campaign. Together with SDA church members—mainly youth—we picked up litter in collaboration with the Binga Rural Council Department. The clean-up covered areas from the township to the surrounding locations. This initiative aligned with the global youth movement’s mission of spreading love, and this year’s theme emphasized showing up in our communities to care for our environment and our neighbors. As a Teach For Zimbabwe (TFZ) member, I encouraged participants to embrace cleanliness as a way of life. The campaign brought together young people aged five to thirty, all united by a common goal: to create a healthier, drug-free environment.