By Ndumiso Tshuma
Church leaders and residents in Tshabalala and Sizinda have launched a community-driven initiative to combat rising drug and substance abuse among young people.
The training session, held on Thursday at the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Zimbabwe’s (ELCZ) Tshabalala Chapel, brought together 30 peer educators. Participants included students from three local schools in Ward 21, along with youths from surrounding communities and the Bulawayo East Parish.
community-driven initiative to combat rising drug and substance abuse among young people
Reverend Mbongeni Dube of the ELCZ highlighted the growing crisis, warning that substance abuse has already forced some youths out of school and claimed lives.
“Just three weeks ago, I buried a young person from our community because of this issue,” he said.
He stressed that the programme is part of the church’s commitment to address drug abuse through active engagement.
“It would be wrong for us to watch this crisis unfold and remain silent. We have a duty to act and support our youth,” Rev Dube said.
The initiative aims to empower students as peer educators who will promote awareness and prevention in their communities.
“We chose students from local schools in Tshabalala and Sizinda to be trained as ambassadors. Their role is to set an example and educate their peers about the dangers of drugs,” he said.
The church also plans regular community meetings involving parents and residents to sustain awareness and encourage collective action.
“Our theme, ‘Stay Sober, Stay Strong,’ reflects our belief that with ongoing education and community effort, we can bring real change,” Rev Dube added.