Harare — In a spirited show of unity and resolve, thousands of Zimbabwean youths took to the streets of Harare in an anti-drug and substance abuse march, rallying behind the call for a drug-free and crime-free nation.

The march, held under the slogan “No to drugs,” was led by young people themselves, a deliberate decision by First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, who urged them to take the lead as those most affected by substance abuse and related social ills.

“The youth being at the forefront was a testament to the fact that they have decided to deal with the drug scourge head-on,” the First Lady shared in a statement on her official X account.

Flanked by the National Chairperson of the Anti-Drug and Substance Abuse Committee, Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, along with Cabinet Ministers, Provincial Ministers, law enforcement agencies, and the Mayor of Harare, the First Lady emphasized that tackling drug abuse requires collective responsibility and active community involvement.

The event was not only symbolic but also practical. Law enforcement agencies showcased significant drug confiscations, underscoring the scale of the problem and the urgency of coordinated action. Marchers also raised awareness on related issues such as reckless driving, cybercrime, and gender-based violence, linking them to the broader fight against social ills threatening communities.

A key highlight of the day was the announcement that the Angel of Hope Drug and Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Centre in Mbare, established under the First Lady’s foundation, has already proven highly effective. The facility now serves as a national model, inspiring the rollout of 67 drug rehabilitation centres across the country.