By Azriel Chimeno
Churches in Zimbabwe are breaking chains and shattering stigmas as they join forces to combat the growing scourge of drug and substance abuse.
In a powerful display of collective action, the African Seventh-day Adventist Church (ASDA) partnered with DCK Group of Companies and Father Flower Group of Schools to host a landmark drug and substance abuse awareness programme held at Father Flower Ingezi Institute in Kadoma.
The event underscored the critical role faith-based organisations can play in addressing this pressing social issue.
Themed “Breaking Silence: Overcoming Drug and Substance Abuse,” the program brought together government officials, community leaders, recovering addicts, schoolchildren, and representatives from various churches and organizations, all united and braving the rainy weather in their determination to tackle the root causes of substance abuse.
As Zimbabwe grapples with the devastating impact of drug abuse on families and communities, initiatives like this offered a beacon of hope for those seeking change.
The awareness programme featured a range of speakers who shared insights on prevention strategies, rehabilitation, and the importance of community support in overcoming addiction.
Elder Douglas Kwande, partner in Ministry with ASDA was the main speaker at the event and he gave powerful teachings and he encouraged youths to emulate the excellent spirit which was in Daniel in the Bible and work hard in order to avoid being disrupted by drug and substance abuse.
“Success is not defined by your current position, but by the decisions you make despite it,” Elder Kwande said. “Elevation is not a destination, but it is a result of perseverance and the right spirit. Keep pushing, stay focused, and remember, an excellent spirit is the key to unlocking doors of promotion,” Elder Kwande emphasised
“Like Daniel, you can rise above the challenges and achieve greatness. Stay focused, stay committed, and do not let drugs derail your dreams,” said Elder Kwande
A highlight of the event was the powerful testimonies from recovering addicts, who shared their harrowing journeys and the transformative power of faith and support in their recovery.
Their stories served as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of substance abuse, but also offered hope to those struggling with addiction.
President of African Seventh Day Adventist Church Pastor Nobert Chimunhu also preached about the need for communication between parents and children, highlighting its role in preventing substance abuse.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, the Executive Secretary of African Seventh Day Adventist Church Pastor Webster Manyika said it was the duty of their church to come out and preach the dangers of drug and substance abuse and how to eradicate the problem.
“It is the duty of the church to preach the spiritual words about the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
“We are not limit this to Mashonaland West, but we will spread to all other provinces as we work with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education,” he said
In an interview, Director General of Father Flower Group of Schools Dr Jimmy Lemekani-Waya said, “We are delighted that the event went well according to plan, with parents, school children, and youths braving the rainy weather to support the awareness and campaign against drug abuse.
This is an eye-opener, and we’re working in line with the Zimbabwe President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s stance against the transportation and distribution of substances,” said the Director General.
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