Harare, Zimbabwe – In a powerful display of resilience and community spirit, Zimbabwean youth are at the forefront of a national movement to combat the country’s escalating drug abuse crisis. A 23-day, 500-kilometre walkathon, themed “Together We Rise, United We Heal,” is currently underway, aiming to shine a spotlight on the devastating impact of substance abuse and inspire a generation to choose a path of recovery and hope.
The march, which began on June 27 and is scheduled to conclude in Harare on July 19, is a collaborative effort between state-owned telecoms operator NetOne and the inspiring grassroots organisation Heal Us Zimbabwe. At its heart is the story of Columbus Tapiwa Mushore, the founder of Heal Us Zimbabwe, who transformed his personal battle with addiction into a mission to help others.
The urgency of this campaign cannot be overstated. Recent statistics paint a grim picture: drug use among Zimbabwean youth soared from 43 percent in 2017 to over 57 percent by 2019. This alarming rise has fractured families, derailed educational aspirations, and stifled the potential of countless young lives. The crisis has prompted President Emmerson Mnangagwa to declare it a national emergency, underscoring the profound societal impact.
Eng. Raphael Mushanawani, NetOne Group chief executive, articulated the profound commitment of his organisation. “We are running towards a future where our youth reject substance abuse,” he stated. “As NetOne, we are honoured to play a central role in this revolution. But we cannot do it alone.”
This sentiment highlights the critical role of organisations like Heal Us Zimbabwe. Mushore’s journey from addiction to advocacy provides an authentic voice and invaluable insights that resonate deeply with young people. Mushanawani emphasized that the partnership allows NetOne to amplify this crucial message. “Heal Us Zimbabwe connects us to the ground reality,” he explained. “They tell us what works, what hurts, and what gives young people a reason to choose life. Our job is to amplify that voice across our entire network — voice, data, mobile money, and internet services.”
The campaign’s outreach extends far beyond the physical journey. Teams from NetOne and Heal Us Zimbabwe are actively engaging with young people in schools, community halls, and youth centres. These face-to-face sessions are designed to break down the stigma surrounding addiction, fostering open dialogue and creating safe spaces for discussion. The walkathon itself acts as a dynamic, travelling outreach program, incorporating daily counselling sessions and powerful testimonies from individuals in recovery, transforming local communities from passive observers into active participants.
Mushanawani also reflected on the positive potential of technology. “The same technology that distracts can also rehabilitate and educate, and NetOne is determined to be part of that solution,” he noted, highlighting innovative approaches to youth engagement.
As the marchers progress towards Harare, now on Day 4, they have been met with an outpouring of support from local residents, who offer water and encouragement. This grassroots solidarity, say campaign leaders, is a powerful testament to the collective effort required for recovery, echoing the message that no one should face addiction alone.
The campaign’s direct and impactful closing message, repeated at every stop, is a call to action for young Zimbabweans: “Your future is in your hands. Say No to Drugs. Say Yes to Life.” The true measure of its success will be seen in the long-term impact on youth drug statistics and the sustained commitment to outreach beyond the walkathon’s conclusion on July 19.
