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By Ross Moyo
NetOne has activated its digital infrastructure to combat drug abuse, launching a “Say No To Drugs” campaign that turns voice, data and mobile money platforms into tools for youth empowerment and community health.
“Make the right choice today for a brighter tomorrow,” NetOne Public Relations Spokesperson Ernest Magadzire said, unveiling content that will be distributed via SMS, social media and USSD across NetOne’s network.
The campaign’s core message — “Your future is in your hands. Say No To Drugs. Say Yes To Life” — is being reinforced with four behavioral pillars: Believe, Choose, Focus, Respect. Magadzire said these were chosen to shift the narrative from fear to agency, giving young people positive alternatives.
Technologically, NetOne is pushing the campaign through targeted data bundles for educational content, zero-rated access to anti-drug resources, and mobile money integrations that connect users to support services. “Technology must serve people, not the other way around,” he noted, echoing NetOne’s winter outreach philosophy.
The initiative comes as Zimbabwe battles rising cases of drug and substance abuse among youth. Magadzire said digital exclusion worsens vulnerability, so NetOne is combining connectivity with awareness to close both gaps simultaneously.
Partnerships are key. NetOne is collaborating with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of ICT, schools and civil society to ensure messaging is consistent and support is accessible. Community health workers will use NetOne’s network to disseminate information and referrals.
Magadzire stressed that algorithms and platforms must reflect African values of community, dignity and shared prosperity. “Together, let’s build a drug-free Zimbabwe,” he said, calling on tech firms to avoid hosting content that glamorizes drug use.
The campaign also promotes digital citizenship. Users are urged to report harmful online content and protect peers from predatory digital spaces. NetOne said child online safety is non-negotiable as more children come online for learning and social interaction.
From a product perspective, NetOne is reviewing its advertising and content policies to ensure it does not inadvertently promote harmful substances. The operator said responsible connectivity is part of its 5G-readiness and cybersecurity strategy.
NetOne concluded that a healthier, safer and stronger community is the foundation for a digital economy. “NetOne cares. NetOne supports a healthier, safer and stronger community,” Magadzire reaffirmed, as the campaign scales to all provinces.
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