Langelihle Nyathi
langae2001@gmail.com
In a powerful partnership aimed at tackling drug abuse among young people, the Family Covenant Church has joined forces with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Narcotics Department to launch the “Yes to Jesus, No to Drugs” awareness campaign.
The initiative has already reached over 35 schools across Bulawayo, combining faith-based guidance with practical education on the dangers of substance abuse.
The campaign was sparked during one of the church’s monthly youth meetings led by Pastor Eunice Muzhari, where boys and girls aged 9 to 16 learn life skills and spiritual values.
After inviting ZRP narcotics officers to speak with the youths, church leaders were alarmed to discover that many children were already familiar with drugs, some having even experimented with them.
“We met the girls first, then the boys the following week, and were shocked to discover that they knew the names, prices, and effects of drugs,” said Bishop Henry Muzhari, founder of Family Covenant Church. “That’s when we realized we had to take action.”
From Msiteli, Northlea, Sobukazi, and more than 35 other schools in Bulawayo, the campaign has been warmly embraced by both students and teachers. Victor Garai, Headboy at Gifford High School, described the initiative as “life-changing,” adding, “Even though not everyone seemed interested at first, I know those who received Jesus will never be the same again.”
At Msiteli High School, previously known for its rowdy reputation, positive change is already evident. Student Humphrey Moyo shared, “I didn’t know that even inhaling ‘jolly juice’ was harmful. After the campaign, many of us started going to church, and our school is no longer seen as notorious.”
Echoing this sentiment, Given Dube, former Headboy of Pumula High School, expressed hope for the campaign’s return, noting, “There’s now a sense of unity and responsibility among students.”
What sets this campaign apart is its vibrant blend of music, preaching, and teaching. Church singers perform uplifting gospel songs that create a joyful and receptive atmosphere for the students. Dumisani Nyathi, a Form 3 student at Sikhulile High School, 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.”
At Lobengula High School, Lower Six Arts student Primrose Ndebele observed significant changes 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.”
Teachers have also praised the campaign’s impact. Saneliso Dube, an English teacher at Cowdray Park High School, noted, “More learners are opening up and attending counseling sessions. Some have given their lives to Christ, and behavior has improved greatly.”
Despite encountering some resistance in a few schools, the campaign’s success has been overwhelmingly positive. Bishop Muzhari hopes to expand the initiative to every school in Bulawayo and eventually across Zimbabwe.
“A decision guided by Jesus is always the right one. I do not regret starting this mission; it has given me purpose,” he said.
As the “Yes to Jesus, No to Drugs” campaign continues to spread, it inspires students to reject substance abuse and embrace a brighter, faith-filled future.
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