… as PAPCOZ draws over 3,000 Students
Chemberi Stadium, yesterday, hosted a major anti-drug and substance abuse campaign organised by the Pan African Positive Change Organisation of Zimbabwe (PAPCOZ), attracting more than 3,000 students from Mashava and surrounding areas.
The event brought together traditional leaders, Government officials, party representatives, educators, church leaders and local residents to address the rise in drug and substance abuse among young people.
PAPCOZ chairman, Godfrey Gusha, rebuked drug abuse as it was harming communities and called for a united response.
“Drugs are not right, and we are in a battlefield to fight this issue. We need the community, the church, the police, and every parent to join hands. This fight cannot be left to one person it belongs to all of us,” he said.
Participants at the event urged for stronger family values, early awareness and tougher action against drug suppliers. Traditional leaders said the programme was timely, noting that rural and mining areas such as Mashava were becoming targets for drug peddlers.
Students took part in discussions, testimonies and learning sessions on mental health and positive life choices. One of the students, Tendai Mupasi, said the programme had motivated young people to make better decisions.
“We learnt a lot today, and it reminded us how important it is to stay away from drugs,” she said.
Community members described the event as one of the most impactful anti-drug campaigns held in Mashava in recent years and praised PAPCOZ for its efforts to protect young people.
