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By Ross Moyo
NetOne has launched a community-focused anti-drug campaign, stressing that protecting Zimbabwean children from substance abuse requires coordinated action from families, schools, churches and government.
“Drug and substance abuse is not just a youth problem. It is a community challenge,” NetOne Public Relations Spokesperson Ernest Magadzire said as the operator unveiled new campaign material emphasizing collective responsibility.
The poster features a family unit with the message “Together, We Can Build A Drug-Free Zimbabwe”. Magadzire said the imagery was deliberate: stronger families create safer communities, and safer communities deliver brighter futures for all Zimbabweans.
He outlined four action pillars for citizens: Speak by starting the conversation; Listen by hearing children out; Guide by showing them the right path; Support by being there for them. Magadzire argued these steps turn awareness into daily practice at household level.
The campaign assigns roles across society. Families must show love and support, schools must educate and inspire, churches must nurture values and hope, community leaders must lead by example, businesses must invest in youth, and government must create policies and support systems.
“Parents, teachers, churches, community leaders, businesses, and Government all have a role to play in safeguarding our young people,” Magadzire noted. He warned that fragmented responses fail, while coordinated community action changes outcomes.
NetOne is backing the message with its digital infrastructure. Through voice, data, mobile money and connectivity, the operator will distribute conversation guides, parenting tips and referral information to support services via SMS and USSD.
The initiative aligns with the National Drug and Substance Abuse Awareness Campaign, Vision 2030 and NDS2 “Leaving No One and No Place Behind”. Magadzire said no child should be excluded from protection or opportunity because of where they live.
“Let’s work hand in hand to protect our children from drugs and build a healthier, safer and more prosperous Zimbabwe,” he urged. NetOne said it will measure impact through community engagements and partnerships with local leaders.
Magadzire closed with NetOne’s commitment: “Connecting Communities. Transforming Lives.” He said the operator’s role is to enable communication and coordination so communities can protect children and secure Zimbabwe’s future.
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