By Staff Reporter
Masvingo City ward 2 councilor Benson Hwata recently hosted a soccer tournament which he said was aimed to provide entertainment while raising awareness on drug and substance abuse.
The event attracted spectators from across the entire city to witness a showdown between Pudo Crackers FC and Runyararo West Football Club.
Pudo Boys thrashed Runyararo West with a whopping four goals to one.
Hwata, a devout soccer player and fan told TellZim News that he used the platform to encourage residents and youths to make better decisions about their lives and refrain from abusing drugs and substances.
“The whole idea behind the tournament was to provide a platform for entertainment for residents and youths alike. However the most important message I wanted to relay to the youths was to refrain from drug and substance abuse. I encourage youths to find other things to occupy themselves and not drugs,” said Hwata.
Although the match was the first of its kind, Hwata promised residents many more to come, reinforcing his commitment to using sports as a tool for social change.
Drug and Substance abuse has become a cause for concern especially among youths due to economic hardships, unemployment and easy access to illicit drugs.
Commonly abused drug and substances include crystal meth, broncleer and marijuana.
