In a powerful show of unity, the Family Covenant Church has joined forces with the ZRP Narcotics Department to combat drug abuse among schoolchildren through a spirited awareness campaign titled Yes to Jesus, No to Drugs.
The initiative, which has already reached more than 35 schools across Bulawayo, is changing young lives by combining faith-based guidance with practical education on the dangers of substance abuse.
The campaign began during one of the church’s monthly youth meetings led by Eunice Muzhari, where boys and girls aged 9 to 16 are taught life skills and spiritual values.
After inviting personnel from the Narcotics Department to speak with the young people, the church leaders were alarmed to learn that many children were already familiar with drugs and some had even tried them.
“We met the girls first, then the following week, the boys, and we were shocked to discover that they knew the names, prices and effects of drugs,” Henry Muzhari, the founder of Family Covenant Church, said. “That’s when we realised we had to take action.”
The campaign has been warmly received by students and teachers.
Victor Garai, the headboy at Gifford High, hailed the campaign saying it is life-changing.
“Even though not everyone seemed interested at first, I know those who received Jesus will never be the same again,” he said.
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At Msiteli High School, once infamous for its rowdy reputation, change is already visible.
“I did not know that even inhaling ‘Jolly Juicy’ was harmful. After the campaign, many of us started going to church, and our school is no longer seen as notorious,” a learner, Humphrey Moyo, said.
Given Dube, a former headboy at Pumula High, echoed the same sentiment, expressing hope that the programme continues.
Dumisani Nyathi, a Form 3 learner at Sikhulile High, said the campaign inspired him to make better choices.
“I have learned to build a stronger relationship with God and stay away from bad friends,” he said.
At Lobengula High, Lower 6th Arts pupil Primrose Ndebele noticed a remarkable transformation among her peers.
“Before the campaign, we used to find about 10 bottles of Njengu in the boys’ toilets every week. Now it’s rare. The teachings really touched people’s hearts,” she said.
Teachers have also stepped in to support and praise the efforts taken towards educating the young generation on drugs and their dangers.
“More learners are opening up and attending counselling sessions. Some have given their lives to Christ and behaviour has improved greatly,” said Saneliso Dube, an English teacher at Cowdray Park High School.
Meanwhile, Bishop Muzhari said the initiative would be taken to every school in Bulawayo and eventually across Zimbabwe.
“A decision is the beginning when Jesus guides your life; the outcome will always be the best, and I do not regret starting this mission. It has given me purpose," he said.
