By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
LOCAL artists in Beitbridge have made a strong call for youths to stop drug abuse.
The call was made on Saturday at the third edition of the Beitbidge Music festival held at Lutumba township.
Music and advocacy were brought together under the theme of fighting drug abuse.
Speaking to Ziyah News Network after the event, festival organiser Shimron Sibanda, popularly known as DJ Shimza, said the initiative was born out of a growing concern within his own community.
“As a resident of Beitbridge and Lutumba, I have seen many of my peers fall victim to drug abuse. Our proximity to the border post means drugs are being smuggled in on a daily basis, increasing the exposure of our youth,” he said.
Sibanda said bringing the festival to Lutumba was a deliberate move to reach a community often associated with violent behaviour, where in many cases those involved are under the influence of drugs.
“We chose Lutumba to spread this message because it is one of the areas most affected. This festival will continue carrying one message to fight drug abuse in support of government efforts,” he said.
Artists who performed at the festival applauded the organisers for using music as a tool for social change, saying the initiative was both timely and necessary.
Fulufhelo Mbedzi, known on stage as Krystal Wamrepa, said young people must take responsibility for their choices and avoid substances that destroy their future.
“Drug abuse is taking away potential from our generation. We need to stay focused and use our talents to build better lives,” he said.
Emmanuel Ndou, also known as Christen Mirror, echoed similar sentiments, urging youths to channel their energy into productive activities.
“Music is a powerful tool. If we use it well, we can influence positive change and help our peers stay away from drugs,” he said.
Female artist Nqobile Tshuma, popularly known as Defeat the Vocalist, said the fight against drug abuse requires collective effort from both the community and young people themselves.
“We need to stand together and say no to drugs. It starts with each one of us making the right decisions,” she said.
Danson Ezrah, who performs as Ayer Napken, also weighed in, highlighting the importance of awareness and community engagement in addressing the issue.
Meanwhile, gospel musician Thomas Madzivanyika from Harare encouraged youths to stay grounded in positive values, adding that faith and discipline can help steer them away from harmful behaviours.
The festival, which featured a diverse lineup of artists across various genres, carried a consistent anti-drug message throughout, reinforcing the urgent need to address substance abuse in communities like Beitbridge.