Gokwe holds anti-drug campaigns

Gokwe Town Council recently held an all-stakeholder campaign against drug and substance
abuse stretching from the Town House to residential hot spots of drugs and Gokwe Central
Business District.

The campaign included various governmental organisations such as National Junior Councils
Association of Zimbabwe represented by Junior Councilors of Gokwe Town, the Zimbabwe
Republic Police, the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, the Ministry of Public Service,
Labour and Social Welfare, and the National AIDS Council of Zimbabwe.

Sharma Gwanzura, Gokwe Town Junior Council Chairperson outlined that drugs encompass a
wide range of substances such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, marijuana, and
hallucinogens, as well as legal substances like prescription medications, alcohol, and tobacco.
“The reasons why people abuse drugs vary and can include factors such as seeking pleasure,
relieving stress or emotional pain, peer pressure, curiosity, or self-medication for underlying
mental health issue.

“The consequences of drug abuse can be severe and can affect various aspects of a persons
life.

“Physically, drug abuse can lead to health problems such as organ damage, cardiovascular
issues, respiratory disorders, and an increased risk of infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS and
hepatitis and for someone who is already on medication, drug and substance abuse can cause
someone to forget and or stop his course and this may lead to loss of human life, Gwanzura
said.

The campaign stretched to Gokwe Town Council Sports and Arts Festival which ran under the
theme Transforming minds through sports and arts on October 28.

The festival was officiated by Daveson Masvisvi, Member of Parliament for Gokwe Central
Constituency who brought to light the dangers of drug and substance abuse to individuals and
society.

One of the most significant dangers of drug and substance abuse is the risk of addiction.
“Continued substance abuse can lead to changes in the brains chemistry, creating a powerful
dependence on the substance. Addiction is a chronic condition that can be challenging to
overcome and can have severe consequences on all aspects of a persons life.

It is important to recognise these dangers and seek help if you or someone you know is
struggling with drug and substance abuse.

“Treatment and support services are available to assist individuals in overcoming addiction and
addressing these risks, Masvisvi said.

The festival had nine teams competing in which N-Richards FC was crowded the soccer
tournament winners and awarded a 15 jersey kit, ball and medals while Blue Bullets Club won
the netball tournament and was awarded with one ball and medals.