By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Vice President Colonel (Rtd) Kembo Mohadi has officially commissioned major rehabilitation works carried out by NetOne at Mtetengwe Primary School Beitbridge , marking a significant step towards transforming rural education infrastructure.
The event also featured a vibrant Half Marathon held in his honor, aimed at uniting communities in the fight against drug abuse.
The marathon, themed “Championing a Drug-Free Future Towards Vision 2030,” brought together participants across various age groups and fitness levels, with race categories spanning 21km, 10km, 5km, and 3km.
The event sought to promote a healthier, more hopeful society by raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and encouraging active lifestyles.
NetOne’s contributions to the rehabilitation project included renovating the school facilities, installing a solar-powered borehole to ensure clean water access, and establishing a thriving nutritional garden to support student health.
Additionally, the school received two soccer kits, balls, netball kits, netballs, as well as a projector and laptops from the Ministry of ICT, aimed at fostering digital literacy and sports development.
During the event, Vice President Mohadi emphasized the alignment of these initiatives with national development goals.
“This initiative resonates directly with the objectives of Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1). It is about modernizing rural education infrastructure, supporting youth development, and fostering digital inclusion to build a prosperous Zimbabwe,” he stated.
He also praised NetOne for their role in transforming Mtengwe Primary School, describing the refurbishment as a “beacon of success for future generations.”
“Such efforts demonstrate our collective commitment to investing in our children’s education and well-being,” he added.
The Vice President further called on stakeholders to continue investing in education and to intensify efforts in drug abuse awareness.
“The effects of drugs are devastating destroying lives, families, and communities. We must remain vigilant and proactive in combating this menace,” he warned.
Supporting the call to action, Honourable Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, Minister of Defence and Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, addressed the gathering. She urged young people to reject drugs and adopt healthier lifestyles, emphasizing the urgent need for collective responsibility.
“We cannot develop our country under the influence of drugs. Even many professionals are being caught in the grip of substance abuse, which has become a serious concern,” she said.
The government’s efforts in tackling drug abuse are guided by the Zimbabwe National Drug Master Plan, a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing the public health, socio-economic, and security challenges posed by drug and substance abuse. The plan continues to direct national strategies towards reducing drug-related harm and fostering a safer, healthier Zimbabwe.
As part of the festivities, the marathon winners were awarded medals and cash prizes by the Vice President, celebrating community spirit and resilience in the fight against drugs.