Seventh-day Adventist Church members in Manjolo township, Binga, partnered with the Ministry of Health and Child Care and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to conduct a community campaign addressing drug and substance abuse among youth.

Held under the theme “Communion in Action: No Drug and Substance Abuse,” the initiative focused on awareness, prevention, and referral pathways for individuals in need of support. Organizers described the effort as a coordinated response to a growing public health and social concern.

Local pastor Lovemore Munuka of Binga North emphasized the urgency of the issue, describing substance abuse as a serious threat to young people and the wider community. He called for collaboration between churches, government institutions, and families to address the challenge and protect youth.

Munuka also highlighted the importance of enforcing laws that prohibit the sale of alcohol to minors and encouraged churches to play an active role in prevention through mentorship and values-based education. He noted that substance abuse is often linked to gender-based violence and other social challenges in the district.

Youth leaders also underscored the role of young people in addressing the issue. Mihlayifani Ndlovu, youth leader for the Binga North district, encouraged peer-led outreach, spiritual mentorship, and community engagement as part of long-term solutions.

Community members welcomed the campaign and emphasized the need for ongoing initiatives to reinforce its impact. Local resident H. Sibbhobola noted that consistent programming is necessary to influence behavior and strengthen community response.

The campaign brought together multiple sectors, with health officials providing education, screening, and referral information, while police supported enforcement efforts targeting illegal suppliers and underage alcohol sales. The church contributed through volunteer mobilization, youth programming, and spiritual support.

Participants highlighted the need for sustained action, including regular community outreach, stronger monitoring of alcohol vendors, improved access to counseling services, and the development of constructive opportunities for youth such as sports, training, and mentorship programs.

Leaders also encouraged collaboration with other faith groups and community organizations to expand the reach of such initiatives.

Organizers said the campaign reflects a broader effort to address substance abuse through coordinated action across sectors, aiming to strengthen community well-being and protect future generations.

This article was provided by the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division.