By Flata Kavinga
Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube has warned young people against drug and substance abuse, saying the practice was destroying communities and threatening the future of the country’s youth.
Ncube made the remarks today (Friday) during former Mbizo legislator Vongaishe Mupereri’s 52nd birthday celebrations held at Mbizo Stadium in Kwekwe.
The celebrations were marked with sports and arts festival with winners receiving prizes.
Addressing party supporters, residents and invited guests, Ncube urged youths in Mbizo to desist from using drugs, specifically referring to the abuse of marijuana-laced cakes in parts of the suburb.
“In conclusion, we warn the youth who are here to desist from drug and substance abuse, especially in Mbizo 9, where they do the ganja cake,” said Ncube.
The minister said community-driven sports and arts programmes could help steer young people away from drugs and other social vices.
“Under the pragmatic leadership of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Comrade Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, envisions growth of youth recreational activities as key drivers of unity of purpose, youth empowerment and healthy lifestyles through enhanced investments in sports infrastructure activities,” he said.
Ncube said the sports and arts festival held alongside the celebrations complemented government efforts to promote inclusivity and community engagement.
“In this regard, guided by the new dispensation’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind, Igwe Sports and Arts Tournament aligns with the Second Republic’s NDS II pillar on sport culture that fosters inclusivity and community engagement,” he said.
The minister commended Mupereri for initiatives aimed at mobilising youths through sports and performing arts in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
“Today’s momentous occasion marks much more than just the passage of time, but a moment to reflect on a journey travelled by Comrade Vongaishe Mupereri underpinned by advocacy for a drug-free community mobilised through sports and the Performing Arts Festival,” said Ncube.
He described Mupereri as a “consistent, loyal, hardworking and honest party cadre” whose contribution to community development in Mbizo and Kwekwe had left a lasting impact.
Ncube outlined Mupereri’s political and development record, including projects implemented during his tenure as councillor and Member of Parliament for Mbizo Constituency.
“These include procurement of ambulances for the City of Kwekwe under the Constituency Development Fund, a blitz to convert council bars to clinics, drilling of over 20 boreholes in Mbizo, and contributing towards infrastructure development and creation of jobs,” he said.
The minister also praised Mupereri and his wife for supporting community development initiatives through sports, arts and youth programmes.
The celebrations attracted residents, political supporters and performers from across Zimbabwe.
