By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Drug and substance abuse took centre stage at the Vice President Dr. Kembo Mohadi Sports Gala, held from November, 14–15, 2025 at Ronnie’s Sports Arena and Welton Private School.
The event brought together athletes, youths and community members from across Matabeleland South for two days of soccer, netball and boxing.
The Matabeleland South ruling Zanu PF structures featured prominently at the games arranged as an annual event by rhe party’s youth.
Running under the theme “Championing Excellence, Harnessing Multi-Disciplinary Sporting and Innovation to Curb Drug and Substance Abuse Towards an Upper-Middle Income Society by 2030,” the gala placed strong emphasis on sport as a tool to steer young people away from harmful behaviour.
Speaking at the event also held in honour of his birthday and organised by the ZANU PF Youth League in partnership with Zim Sports for Ed Mohadi expressed serious concern about the rising cases of drug abuse in Zimbabwe.
“I am saddened by the situation of substance and drug abuse, which is affecting both youths and adults. Many young people with promising futures have unfortunately fallen victim,” he said.
He said Government is prioritising the establishment of fully resourced rehabilitation centres in every province under the Second Republic as part of efforts to combat the crisis.
“The creation of professional drug- and substance-abuse services shows our commitment to fighting this social problem,” he said.
Mohadi also linked drug abuse to other challenges facing youth, such as illegal migration and school dropouts, particularly among boys.
“Many students are leaving school and crossing borders in search of opportunities. Government is working with partners such as IOM, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches and Save the Child to address these issues by improving access to basic services and promoting empowerment,” he said.
Mohadi urged young people to remain focused on their goals and avoid substances that derail their future.
“Do not give up on your dreams. Let us work together to improve our province and nation. Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.”
In his welcome remarks, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Albert Nguluvhe, also underscored the dangers of drug abuse.
“Drugs promise escape but bring destruction. They rob individuals of potential and communities of their future,” he said.
“Through education, support, and strong community engagement, we can break the cycle. Sports help build discipline, resilience and purpose among young people,” he said.
Hundreds of youths painted the Ronnies Sports Arena with Zanu PF colours at the event where Gwanda South won men’s soccer while Beitbridge East won netball.
Different organisations sponsored the event which is in its second edition.
Matabeleland South Zanu PF provincial chairman Mangaliso Ndlovu urged the youths to emulate Mohadi’s life describing him as a man who never lost an election because of his determination for good over bad.