Hundreds of young people, church leaders, and stakeholders gathered in Harare on Friday for a Day of Prayer against drug and substance abuse, hosted by Teen Rescue Mission (TRM) in partnership with the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ) under the theme: “Nation, Lift Your Hands in Prayer Against Drugs and Substance Abuse.”
The interdenominational event brought together students, church youth groups, and community leaders to pray, share testimonies, and commit to practical action against the growing drug crisis affecting Zimbabwe’s young people.
Representing the University of Zimbabwe Criminology Association, a student leader challenged youths to see themselves as custodians of their own lives.
“Youths need safe spaces. Let us not shame them when they struggle,” he said. “We must run awareness campaigns and, as the church, we must provide trained counsellors who can support young people and stay with them through recovery.”
Prophetess Angel, who spoke at the gathering, told youths that their identity is rooted in God, not in social media trends or difficult backgrounds.
Drawing from Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” she said: “You are unique as a youth. Be innovative. We are tired of social media things. Do not be limited by your background, be active as a child of God, make an impact in this generation,”she said
Guest of honour, Ms Cynthia Muzira, delivered a call to personal responsibility and faith.
“When you call Him, He answers. Do not live someone else’s dream, seek God’s plan for your life, make things right for the first time and make a decision to change your life,” she said.
Muzira also warned against abandoning young people during hard seasons.
“Do not give up. When you are going through a hard season, take your children through it. If you abandon them, that is when you will see them end up in drugs. Tell God and act. Start speaking positively about your life, have a conversation with God. I want to assure you that delay is not denial, do not be a victim of pressure,” she urged.
Meanwhile, renowned gospel singer worshipper Larry Gunda closed the messages with a word of hope for those in bondage.
“It is possible to be freed and stay free from drugs. It’s possible to break free,” he said.
The Day of Prayer ended with corporate intercession, worship, and a renewed commitment by TRM and EFZ to expand counselling, skills training, and community outreach as part of the fight against substance abuse.
