My Age Zimbabwe in collaboration with the Ministry of sports, recreation arts and culture and other key partners conducted a walk for life with artists advocating against drug and substance use and misuse in Masvingo.
My Age has been empowering young artists and combating drug and substance misuse through the 263 youth TV Digital Platform in an effort to improve the situation making use of the hidden power artists possess, due to their significant social impact, artists spearheaded the Walk for Life initiative since they are among the most influential groups when it comes to drug and substance abuse.
Dr Chidhakwa from the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture said that this was a good initiative and that it should be carried out on a regular basis to raise awareness of the dangers that drug and substance abuse pose to our health, future, and national development. She also suggested using sports, the arts, and recreational activities to teach young people how to avoid drug use and abuse.
Provincial head of the ministry of youth in Masvingo John Mbizvo said that giving young artist a platform to harness their talents and investing in sports will go a long way in curing the situation of drugs and substance abuse
Whilst drug trafficking is rampant across Zimbabwe, the problem has gone beyond imported drugs, reports indicate some young people take local concoctions, others even dip diapers and bleach products in boiling water and then inhale the vapors as intoxicants have emerged as new sources for both hard and prescription drugs, including bronclear (a cough syrup containing codeine), moonshine knowns locally as tumbwa or kozoda, crystal meth and prescription drugs such as Diazepam, Ketamine and Pethidine, morphine and Fentanyl.
Sport is found to be associated with enhanced self-esteem and self-discipline, the prevention of boredom and the promotion of leadership skills, empowerment, positive relationships and role models. Various artistic activities for example music, visual arts, dance, drama) were found to contribute to cognitive development, greater self-awareness and self-confidence, and positive social interactions to young people.
Drug and substance abuse can have a profound impact on artists, firstly, it can severely hinder their creative process. The altered state of mind caused by drugs can distort their perception and impair their ability to think clearly and creatively.
This can result in a decline in the quality of their work, as well as a lack of focus and motivation to create. Secondly, drug abuse can lead to physical and mental health issues, which can further impede an artist’s ability to produce art.
The physical toll of substance abuse can result in fatigue, illness, and a general decline in overall well-being. Additionally, the mental health implications, such as depression and anxiety, can further hinder an artist’s ability to find inspiration and express themselves through their art, drug and substance abuse can also negatively impact an artist’s professional and personal life.
