City of Masvingo Gender Desk leads awareness campaign on drug abuse, teenage pregnancies and child marriages

City of Masvingo Gender Desk recently organized a multi-stakeholder awareness program at Mucheke High School aimed at educating learners on the dangers of drug and substance abuse, teenage pregnancies and child marriages.

The engagement brought together various stakeholders working in the areas of child protection, gender equality, health, law enforcement and youth empowerment, creating a platform for learners to openly engage on social challenges affecting young people.

Among the stakeholders who participated were Musasa, My Age Africa, the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, the Victim Friendly Unit (VFU), BHASO and the City of Masvingo Junior Council.

The program focused on equipping learners with information that can help them make informed decisions and protect themselves from social risks that can negatively affect their education, health and future prospects.

Stakeholders highlighted the growing need for young people to understand the dangers associated with drug and substance abuse, including its potential impact on academic performance, behavior, relationships and overall wellbeing. Learners were encouraged to resist negative peer pressure and seek assistance whenever they encounter challenges relating to substance abuse.

The awareness program also placed emphasis on teenage pregnancies and child marriages, with stakeholders educating learners on the risks and long-term consequences of early pregnancy and early marriage, including disruption of education, economic vulnerability and exposure to various forms of abuse.

The Victim Friendly Unit provided information on child protection and mechanisms for reporting cases of abuse, while organizations such as Musasa and My Age Africa shared perspectives on protecting young people from violence, exploitation and harmful practices.

The participation of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development further strengthened the program’s focus on gender equality, empowerment and the protection of vulnerable groups.

Meanwhile, the City of Masvingo Junior Council provided an important youth perspective, reinforcing the importance of involving young people in addressing challenges affecting their peers and communities.

The City of Masvingo Gender Desk emphasized the importance of continued collaboration among stakeholders in creating safe and supportive environments where young people can access information, seek help and make positive choices.

Council will continue working with relevant stakeholders and schools to strengthen awareness programs aimed at safeguarding young people and ensuring that they have the opportunity to pursue their education and realize their full potential.