19/11/2025
Blessing Nduku
Shurugwi youths have been urged to shun drugs and substance abuse as it is undermining public safety, a menace that undermines the moral fibre and productivity in communities.
Speaking at the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Anti-Drugs campaign in Shurugwi, the guest of honour, River Valley Group of Companies' Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Professor Smelly Dube, emphasized the need to heed President ED Mnangagwa's call for communities to expose those who harbour drug peddlers and merchandisers, as they are responsible for the menace being caused by drug abuse.
"Today, River Valley Group of Companies is joining hands with the Shurugwi community and the Zimbabwe Republic Police in tackling the alarming rise in drug and substance abuse, machete gang violence, child marriages, and domestic violence, which has been linked to a surge in criminal activities among the youth at Makusha grounds in Shurugwi.
The partnership aims to raise awareness, promote rehabilitation 1and restore hope in a town grappling with the social impact of addiction. This menace is undermining our safety, destroying lives, the future of our children, and eroding our social fabric," said Prof Dube.
During the campaign, River Valley donated 1,000 liters of fuel to the ZRP Shurugwi for use in the anti-drugs campaigns in the area.
She also donated a piece of land in Magagushla, where a much-needed rehabilitation center will be constructed.
"Dr Engineer Mncedisi Dube, the company chairperson, sent me to give you 1000 litres of fuel for this awareness campaign and also a stand for us to construct a rehab at Magagushla. We are going to be part and parcel of our government's effort to fight against drug abuse in the country."
Recent statistics from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Shurugwi reveal that the station receives about 150 drug and substance abuse-related cases each month.
These include crimes such as assaults, murders, domestic violence, child marriages, and r**e.
The increase has been largely attributed to the widespread abuse of locally available drugs such as dagga (mbanje), crystal m**h (guka), inhalants (glue), broncleer (bronco), and tumbwa.
It has also been linked to the rise of machete gangs, who instill fear and insecurity in local communities.
In a passionate appeal, Prof Dube urged youths to resist peer pressure, make informed decisions, and seek help if struggling with addiction.
“Pursue positive passions and support rehabilitation programs. Elders, we encourage you to guide and mentor young people, share wisdom, and support community initiatives."
"As for the whole community, you are reminded of your duty to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and use the police hotline (0771 411 911) to assist in crime prevention."
On a national level, Prof Dube called for a multi-sectoral approach involving law enforcement agencies, local authorities, health services, civil society, churches, and community social workers to curb the crisis.
“Let us unite and fight against these scourges in Shurugwi. Together, we can break the chains of drug addiction, end machete gang violence, stop child marriages, and reclaim the safety and dignity of our community,” she concluded.
As the fight against drug abuse and related crime intensifies, the collaboration between RVP and the Shurugwi community stands as a beacon of hope. Through continued awareness campaigns, youth empowerment initiatives, and community-driven solutions, stakeholders remain committed to reclaiming the town's future, one life at a time.
Blessing Nduku Shurugwi youths have been urged to shun drugs and substance abuse as it is undermining public safety, a menace that undermines the moral fibre and productivity in communities. Speaking at the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Anti-Drugs campaign in Shurugwi, the guest of honour, River Va...
