STATE-OWNED mobile network operator NetOne has intensified its ongoing anti-drug awareness campaign, reaffirming its commitment to complementing government efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people.
Zimbabwe has, in recent years, witnessed a sharp rise in drug and substance abuse, prompting government to call for a whole-of-society response involving the private sector, churches, communities and civil society.
The scourge has been linked to rising crime, school dropouts, mental health challenges and family breakdown, with President Emmerson Mnangagwa urging all sectors to play their part in addressing the crisis.
Speaking to NewsDay, NetOne spokesperson Ernest Magadzire said the continuation of the “Say No to Drugs” campaign reflected the company’s belief that fighting drug abuse requires sustained engagement rather than a once-off awareness drive.
“NetOne believes that connectivity is not only about technology but also about connecting people to opportunities, hope and a better future,” he said.
“Drug and substance abuse has become one of the most significant social challenges facing Zimbabwe's youth, threatening their health, education, productivity and ability to contribute meaningfully to national development.”
Magadzire said the campaign sought to complement government efforts by expanding awareness, promoting prevention and empowering young people with information and positive alternatives.
He said NetOne was taking the anti-drug message directly to communities, schools and digital platforms to bridge the gap between awareness and action, adding that the campaign was not a once-off initiative but a long-term social investment.
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“Our interventions will include community outreach programmes, school engagement initiatives, digital awareness campaigns, mentorship programmes and educational workshops that equip young people with knowledge, life skills and opportunities for personal growth,” Magadzire said.
He added that through NetOne’s corporate social responsibility pillars of Health and Care and Empowerment, the company would continue to support digital inclusion, innovation, entrepreneurship, sports development and skills empowerment programmes to provide positive pathways for young people.
