Community Mirror Reporter
The RUWA community is rallying together today for a major anti-drug campaign event at the Roman Catholic Grounds in Riverside.
With an emphasis on community engagement through sports, residents are taking a stand against the escalating drug abuse crisis that is particularly affecting the youth.
The event, organized for residents of Ward 4, features a variety of sporting activities, including soccer, netball, and tug of war, with prizes available for participants.
Scheduled to run from 9 AM to 4 PM, this gathering comes at a critical moment, as Zimbabwe faces alarming statistics regarding substance abuse among its youth, with recent studies indicating that 57% of Zimbabwe’s youth population is affected.
Ruwa Mayor Michael Mataruka urged residents to join the anti-drug and substance abuse campaign, emphasizing the importance of unity in combating this pressing issue.
“Through sports and community engagement, we can build stronger bonds and create positive alternatives for our youth. Together, we can make Ruwa a beacon of hope in the fight against substance abuse,” he said.
This initiative aligns with Zimbabwe’s newly launched Multisectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030), which aims to implement effective prevention strategies through coordinated community efforts.
The plan underscores the need to address the root causes of substance abuse, particularly in urban areas like Ruwa, which are facing rapid population growth and urban poverty.
As part of the event, community members will engage in educational campaigns, counseling, and empowerment programs, drawing inspiration from successful models implemented elsewhere in Zimbabwe.
These initiatives align with the national government’s National Drug Master Plan, which aims to reduce drug supply and demand while promoting harm reduction and rehabilitation.
In Ruwa, substance abuse is a significant concern, with marijuana reported as the most commonly abused drug.
Alarmingly, the gender distribution reveals a higher prevalence of substance abuse among males at 59% compared to 41% among females.
The event’s organizers have ensured that the Roman Catholic Grounds, located approximately 25 kilometers from Harare, can accommodate a large number of participants, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and resilience within the community as they collectively take a stand against drug abuse.
