By Prince Chese
BEITBRIDGE stakeholders have announced a district-wide awareness campaign against drugs and substance abuse scheduled for December 22 with a march and main event set to take place at Dulivhadzimu Stadium.
This is in response to the rising incidence of drug and substance abuse among youths,
The campaign, themed “Stay Away from Drugs and Save Your Future”, was unveiled during a planning meeting held on Monday at the Beitbridge District Development Council (DDC) boardroom.
The initiative brings together government departments, non-governmental organisations, churches, and local community leaders.
Stanley Moyo, representing the Ministry of Youth under the Drug Reduction Pillar, said the campaign will kick off with a march from Tshitaudze (Mashavire) , Madinginye, and Dulivhadzimu suburbs, converging at the Dulivhadzimu Bu Terminus before proceeding to the stadium.
“We want to raise awareness in every corner of the community. After the march, there will be music, entertainment, and speeches from key departments such as Child Care, Police, ZPCS, Information, and church leaders,” Moyo said.
Kudakwashe Garaipasi from the Youth and Health Department said the day will also feature a youth soccer match starting at 3 PM to promote healthy lifestyles.
“The aim is to show young people that drugs are harmful and can have dangerous consequences for their future,” Garaipasi said.
The district-wide campaign represents a collaborative effort to educate youths, engage communities, and offer alternatives that encourage safe, healthy, and productive lifestyles.