By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
A 21-year-old Beitbridge youth, Tinashe Saunyama, has shared his journey to recovery after struggling with drug and substance abuse for three years, urging young people to shun drugs and seek help when faced with challenges.
Saunyama shared his testimony during a meeting held in Beitbridge on Thursday, where a delegation led by Sikhangele Ndlovu, the Acting Chief Director for Coordination in the Office of the Minister of State for Matabeleland South and Devolution, assessed the functionality of the district’s Drug and Substance Abuse Committee.
The committee was activated in 2025 to coordinate efforts aimed at addressing drug and substance abuse in the district.
Saunyama said he received assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development as he worked towards overcoming substance abuse.
He also underwent training under the National Youth Service programme as part of his journey towards rebuilding his life.
Drawing from his personal experience, Saunyama encouraged young people to refrain from drug and substance abuse and seek assistance when confronted with challenges.
His testimony highlighted the importance of support systems in helping young people affected by substance abuse work towards recovery and reintegration into society.
Meanwhile, Ndlovu commended the Beitbridge Drug and Substance Abuse Committee for the progress it had made in implementing activities aimed at combating the problem.
She said the delegation’s visit was intended to assess the committee’s functionality and establish how effectively its various pillars were working to curb drug and substance abuse.
“From the reports presented by the different pillars, the committee is really doing well. The pillars are working hand in glove, and I am happy with the activities being undertaken,” said Ndlovu.
She noted that Beitbridge’s position as a busy border town, coupled with its proximity to a porous border, presented particular challenges in addressing drug and substance abuse.
Ndlovu also highlighted the need for resource mobilisation to support the committee’s programmes, noting that limited resources remained a challenge.
“Resources are scarce, and we have to work together in trying to raise funds,” she said.
The meeting brought together stakeholders involved in the district’s response to drug and substance abuse, providing an opportunity to review progress, identify challenges and strengthen collaboration.