NetOne backs 500km walkathon to tackle Zimbabwe's drug crisis

A 23-day walk from Zimbabwe's southern border to the capital, Harare, is shedding light on the nation's growing drug and substance abuse crisis. The "Together We Rise, United We Heal" campaign, which began in Beitbridge on June 27 and is set to conclude on July 19, spans over 500 kilometers. This initiative is a partnership between the state-owned mobile network operator NetOne and Heal Us Zimbabwe, a community organization founded by a former drug addict.

Organizers intend for each kilometer covered to inspire more young people to choose recovery over addiction. The walkathon seeks to raise awareness, encourage rehabilitation, and foster community participation in combating substance abuse. This effort comes at a time of heightened concern over drug use among young Zimbabweans, a trend that prompted President Emmerson Mnangagwa to declare drug and substance abuse a national emergency.

“

We are running towards a future where our youth reject substance abuse. As NetOne, we are honored to play a central role in this revolution. But we cannot do it alone.

Eng. Raphael Mushanawani, NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the need for collective action, stating, "We are running towards a future where our youth reject substance abuse. As NetOne, we are honored to play a central role in this revolution. But we cannot do it alone." He highlighted the synergy between NetOne's technological reach and Heal Us Zimbabwe's firsthand experience and frontline truth in recovery.

Columbus Tapiwa Mushore, founder of Heal Us Zimbabwe and a recovering addict himself, expressed his organization's commitment to aiding young people in escaping addiction through shared experiences and rehabilitation opportunities. The partnership strategically merges NetOne's nationwide communications network with Heal Us Zimbabwe's grassroots outreach, ensuring anti-drug messages reach communities both online and through direct engagement. Mushanawani added, "NetOne believes that connectivity is not only about technology but also about connecting people to opportunities, hope and a better future."

“

NetOne believes that connectivity is not only about technology but also about connecting people to opportunities, hope and a better future.