MILLICENT HUNGWE
MASVINGO-The fight against drug and substance abuse reached another significant milestone as the NetOne and Heal Us Zimbabwe 23-day national walkathon arrived in Masvingo, continuing its inspiring journey from Beitbridge to Harare.
Held under the theme “Together We Rise, United We Heal,” the walkathon, which began on 27 June and will conclude on 19 July 2026, has become a powerful symbol of hope, resilience and national unity in the fight against one of Zimbabwe’s biggest social challenges.
As the walkers entered Masvingo, they carried more than just backpacks, they carried a message of healing, recovery and the belief that every Zimbabwean has a role to play in protecting the nation’s youth from the devastating effects of drug and substance abuse.
Speaking at the launch of the campaign in Beitbridge, NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer Engineer Raphael Mushanawani said defeating drug abuse requires collective responsibility.
“We are running towards a future where our youth reject substance abuse, as NetOne, we are honoured to play a central role in this revolution, but we cannot do it alone.
“Heal Us Zimbabwe brings the lived experience, the frontline truth, and the human face of recovery. That is why this partnership matters,” he said.
The partnership between NetOne and Heal Us Zimbabwe, founded by former drug addict Columbus Tapiwa Mushore, has brought together corporate resources and lived experience to create a campaign that goes beyond awareness.
Along the route, the teams are engaging schools, communities and youth groups through counselling sessions, motivational talks and testimonies from recovering addicts, encouraging young people to choose life over drugs.
Engineer Mushanawani said NetOne’s vision extends beyond providing telecommunications services.
“Connectivity is not only about technology but also about connecting people to opportunities, hope and a better future.
“Heal Us Zimbabwe connects us to the ground reality, they tell us what works, what hurts, and what gives young people a reason to choose life, our job is to amplify that voice across our entire network,” he said.
He added that technology should be used as a force for positive social change.
“The same technology that distracts can also rehabilitate and educate and NetOne is determined to be part of that solution. Together, we are turning connectivity into a lifeline,” he emphasized.
The campaign was inspired by the alarming rise in drug use among Zimbabwean youths, with prevalence increasing from 43 percent in 2017 to over 57 percent by 2019, prompting President Emmerson Mnangagwa to declare drug and substance abuse a national emergency.
The walkathon also supports Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 by promoting a healthy, productive and empowered generation capable of driving the country’s economic development.
The arrival in Masvingo marks another important chapter in the more than 500-kilometre journey, with residents expected to join the campaign in spreading the anti-drug message.
The warm reception from communities along the route continues to demonstrate that the fight against drug abuse is a shared national responsibility.
As the team continues its journey towards Harare, every step taken reinforces one powerful message:
“Your future is in your hands. Say No to Drugs. Say Yes to Life.”
For NetOne and Heal Us Zimbabwe, every kilometre walked represents another opportunity to save lives, restore hope and inspire a drug-free Zimbabwe.
