By Dennis Ndlovu
Recently trained peer educators in Matobo district have pledged to raise awareness on drug and substance abuse effects in their communities.
Trained peer educator in Matobo, Mthelisi Ndlovu, has vowed to hold conversations with young men in different spaces where they meet.
“I intend to connect with school dropouts, have conversation with them, and share crucial information about the risks associated with drugs and substance abuse,” said Mthelisi.
Through this, he believes sharing his knowledge and experiences can make a positive impact on their lives and help them make informed decisions.
Another trained peer educator, Given Ndlovu, highlighted that he will reach out to young people from the Seventh Day Adventist church.
Through the engagements, he looks forward to educating the youth on root causes of drug and substance abuse.
“I intend to educate them on causes and effects of drug and substance abuse and what the youths are supposed to do to avoid indulging in them,” added Given Ndlovu.
The Assistant Field Officer at Sikhethimpilo, Lerato Ngulube, highlighted that the training organized in collaboration with Department of Social Development (DSD), Ministry of Health and Child Care and the Eagle’s Wings aimed to leverage on the power of peer-to-peer engagements.
“Through engaging with their peers, these trained educators can uncover hidden information about the challenges young people face that may lead to the abuse of drugs,” said Lerato Ngulube.
Various attempts have been made to address the challenge of drugs and substance abuse in the district. In 2023, Matobo Youth Development Initiative (MYDI) in partnership with the DSD convened a stakeholder meeting to discuss the increase in drugs and substance abuse in Maphisa Growth Point.
In March 2024, Matobo Youth Development Initiative made efforts to raise awareness on drug and substance abuse through a march in partnership with the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church in Maphisa Growth Point.
