One Ball, One Message: Zvishavane Youth Kick Drugs Off the Field at SRHR Gala
ZVISHAVANE — Hundreds of young people from across Zvishavane District gathered at Mabasa Growth Point in Ward 8 for the SRHR Annual Sports Gala, a high-impact initiative aimed at tackling rising drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections.
Held under the theme “Choose your future, not drugs,” the event combined football and netball tournaments with on-site education, HIV testing, and youth counselling — delivering urgent support where it was needed most.
Speaking to Afrogazette News, Bethany Project Director Rebecca Gumbo described the Gala as a direct response to the growing crisis of drug and substance abuse among young people in the district.
“This Gala was part of our AmplifyChange-funded initiative to increase access to SRHR services. We are seeing how drugs are not just harming health — they are derailing futures,” Gumbo explained.
She noted that the theme was chosen to highlight the link between substance abuse and sexual health risks, including unintended pregnancies, STIs, and gender-based violence.
“Drugs impair judgment. They expose young people to exploitation, unsafe sex, and long-term consequences that rob them of their potential,” she remarked.
Gumbo emphasized that the Gala was designed to deliver real services, not just awareness.
ZNFPC and MOHCC provided HIV testing and counselling, while the Victim Friendly Unit and CID Drug Section educated youth on legal rights and the consequences of drug use.
“This was a multi-sectoral effort. We brought together health experts, law enforcement, and community leaders to deliver a unified message: your future is worth protecting,” she stated.
She added that the Bethany Project will continue working with partners to expand SRHR access and drug prevention efforts across Zvishavane.
“Our goal is to embed these services into everyday community life. This is not a one-day event — it is a long-term commitment to youth empowerment,” Gumbo affirmed.
As part of ongoing community education efforts, law enforcement officers conduct radio programmes and awareness campaigns to reach youth with information on drug abuse and sexual health.
However, limited access to radios in rural areas makes in-person events like the SRHR Gala essential for direct engagement.
“We run educational radio programmes, including a regular slot on YA FM Radio. But many youths do not have radios. That is why events like the SRHR Sports Gala are so important — they allow us to speak to them directly, face-to-face,” one officer explained.
The officers used the Gala to outline both the legal consequences of drug-related offenses and the health risks associated with substance abuse.
“We tell them clearly: if you are caught with illegal substances, you will be arrested. However, we also explain why drugs are harmful — what they do to your body, your future, and the kind of sentences you could face,” the officer clarified.
They highlighted that their presence at the Gala allowed them to engage with young people in a non-threatening environment, using sport and open dialogue to build trust.
“When we are part of events like this, we are not just enforcing the law. We are helping young people understand the risks and make better choices,” the officer noted.
The police also pointed to partnerships with faith-based organizations such as the Anglican Church and ZAOGA ministries, where they conduct awareness campaigns during church gatherings.
“We go where people are already gathered. Churches have been very supportive — they invite us to speak during youth meetings and community events, and that helps us spread the message further,” the officer added.
Ward 8 Councillor Stella Mlalazi welcomed the Gala, observing that it arrived at a critical time and offered young people a chance to reconnect with their potential.
“I am grateful for this programme. It is helping our youth leave drugs behind and choose a better life. I hope it continues season after season,” she expressed.
She reflected on the energy on the ground — from football matches to community dialogue and how sport can guide youth toward healthier choices.
“I saw youth of all ages enjoying themselves. This is where they feel alive and it is the right moment to guide them,” Mlalazi commented.
Participants shared that the Gala helped them understand the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of making informed choices about sexual health.
Tichaona Moyo(18) remarked that drugs like mutoriro and broncleer destroy focus and ambition, and football helps him stay busy and avoid harmful habits.
“These balls help us stay focused. You cannot chase drugs when you are chasing goals,” he said.
Ruth Nyoni, 27, reflected on the programme’s value, especially the information on sexual health, including the risks of unprotected sex, early pregnancy, and STIs.
“We discussed issues that many avoid. Now I know how to protect myself and guide others who may not have access to this knowledge,” she explained.
She added that netball helps her stay focused and encourages younger women to avoid negative influences.
“Sport gives us discipline. It keeps us away from drugs like broncleer and reminds us that we have value,” Ruth emphasized.
Four teams — Dambudzo, Mabasa, Hwelezi, and Mapanzure competed in both netball and soccer, with prizes awarded not just for performance but for participation and spirit.
In netball, Mabasa emerged as the winning team and received a jersey and a trophy. Dambudzo came second with 4 points and won three balls and a pump.
Mapanzure and Hwelezi tied with 1 point each, both receiving a ball and a pump.
In soccer, Hwelezi boys took the top spot and were awarded a jersey kit and a trophy.
Mapanzure followed with 4 points and received three balls and a pump.
Dambudzo came third and won two balls and a pump, while Mabasa boys finished fourth with three points and received a ball and a pump.
As the sun dipped behind the hills of Zvishavane, the Gala ended not with a whistle, but with a promise — that sport, community, and knowledge can unite to protect the future of a generation.
