By Andrew Zhou
MASHAVA – The Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, said Churches played critical role in curbing drug and substance abuse among young people through counselling and spiritual guidance.
Minister Chadzamira made the remarks after attending the End Time Message (ETM) Tent Meeting held at Mashava Primary School grounds on Sunday, November 16.
Chadzamira was accompanied by Chivi North Member of Parliament, Godfrey Mukungunugwa, and the President’s investment special advisor, Dr Paul Tungwarara.
Speaking to TellZim News after the service, Minister Chadzamira said churches served as indispensable partners in national development, particularly in addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse.
“The church plays a pivotal role in curbing drug and substance abuse among the youth through their counselling and spiritual guidance,” said Chadzamira.
He further explained that the church’s interventions through youth guidance, counselling, and awareness programmes were proving effective in combating the vice that had been affecting communities across the province.
He went on to praise the church for its broader role in fostering social cohesion, peace, harmony, unity, and economic development in the country.
“As leaders, we draw strength and guidance from the moral principles upheld by churches. We must ensure that the government’s developmental agenda, which focuses on uplifting the lives of our people, is rooted in the same spirit of service and integrity,” said Chadzamira.
Dr Tungwarara echoed the same sentiments, highlighting the importance of the church’s role in complementing government efforts to address social ills and achieve national development goals.
“This is more than just a church meeting, it is a coming together of people dedicated to a greater cause. The church plays an important role in fighting drugs among the youth and it is also fostering and assisting the nation to achieve the current President’s Vision 2030 for an upper middle income economy by 2030.”
The high profile gathering saw the temporary tabernacle filled to capacity as worshippers from across Zimbabwe congregated for the spiritual revival services. The officials were warmly welcomed by organizers and the enthusiastic crowd.
The presence of the senior officials at the religious event was viewed as a move to strengthen grassroots engagement and underscore the government’s recognition of the significant social and spiritual capital held by faith communities across the province.
The event concluded with prayers for the nation and its leadership, reinforcing the partnership between religious institutions and government in addressing societal challenges, particularly the fight against drug and substance abuse among the youth.
