Gender and Community
CHIPINGE – A powerful grassroots movement against drug and substance abuse is gaining momentum in Chipinge, with traditional leaders, civic groups, and government agencies uniting under the banner of the Mwene weBhawa campaign.
Spearheaded by Chief Tobias Garahwa and supported by community organizations, the initiative has become a symbol of collective action in addressing the district’s growing substance abuse crisis.
The campaign reached a significant milestone on September 18 when over 800 villagers gathered in Matikwa, Ward 26, for a major awareness event coordinated by Sustainable Agricultural Technology (SAT). The gathering brought together representatives from multiple ministries, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Platform for Youth and Community Development (PYCD), and Vemuganga Community Radio.
Bernard Mugunzva, SAT district coordinator, highlighted the impact of drug abuse on community development:
“Drug use has disrupted farming programmes meant to support vulnerable households. A united force involving local media like Vemuganga FM will improve the behaviours of our targeted beneficiaries.”
Police representatives drew clear connections between substance abuse and criminal activity, warning that “those involved in drug trafficking face arrest and prosecution,” while also highlighting links to gender-based violence, burglary, and mental health issues.
Claris Madhuku, PYCD director and social commentator, emphasized the importance of collective action:
“Individual effort and isolated programming will be futile. The united front will benefit more if fashioned around the Mwene weBhawa campaign,” he said, calling for comprehensive behavior-change interventions targeting young people.
Community media has played a crucial role in the campaign’s success. Vemuganga FM has amplified anti-drug messages and created a vital bridge between villagers and authorities, facilitating open discussions about the social impact of substance abuse, which research shows has contributed to crime, family breakdowns, child marriages, and teenage pregnancies in the district.
The Chipinge initiative aligns with the national strategy led by the National Taskforce on the Elimination of Drugs and Substance Abuse, chaired by Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri, which brings together 11 ministries in a comprehensive approach to reduce drug supply, support treatment, and promote community reintegration.
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