Community leaders and sports figures have raised concerns over rising drug abuse among young people, urging collective action to protect the next generation.
The concerns were voiced during the Imiklomelo kaDakamela 2026 Cultural Festival held in Nkayi on Saturday, where various stakeholders addressed youths on the dangers of substance abuse.
Zenzo Siliwela from Rechabites Trust said his journey into anti-drug advocacy was inspired by a personal experience after his friend’s son began using drugs.
“I stand firmly against drugs because I have seen how they destroy lives. What pushed me to start speaking to young people was when my son’s friend began using drugs. His behaviour changed, his life started going in the wrong direction, and it affected everyone around him. That is when I realised this is not something happening far away, it is taking place in our own homes, and we need to act,” said Siliwela.
Siliwela said he was later invited by Highlanders Football Club to speak at the festival and educate young people.
“When Highlanders FC invited me to speak at the Imiklomelo kaDakamela festival, I saw it as an important opportunity to reach many young people at once. We told them clearly that drugs are harmful to their bodies because they interfere with how nutrients are absorbed, weakening their health. We also explained that drugs can destroy their dreams and careers before they even have a chance to succeed in life,” he said.
He added that the impact of drug abuse among youths is becoming increasingly serious.
“It is very painful to see what is happening today. Some young people are losing hope and even taking their own lives because of drugs. This shows how deep the problem has become. The most worrying part is that children are starting to use drugs at a very young age, and it is slowly destroying our future generation. If we do not act now, we risk losing many young people,” said Siliwela.
Meanwhile, Gwayi Crains Academy football coach Israel Moyo said sport can play a key role in keeping young people away from drugs.
“As a football academy, we have noticed that many young people begin experimenting with drugs at around the age of 15. This is the same age group we recruit, between 15 and 21, when they have the most energy and potential. Because of this, we are working hard to guide them and keep them away from drugs,” said Moyo.
He said the academy promotes football as a positive alternative.
“We encourage young people to focus on football so they can remain busy and disciplined. When they are committed to training and improving their skills, they are less likely to become involved in drugs. Our goal is to help them build a better future through sport and protect their talent from being destroyed,” he said.
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