Faith-based leaders in Zimbabwe are joining forces to combat the growing drug and substance abuse crisis in an event held in Harare on 11 March 2026.
Reverend Dr David Phiri, President of the International Preachers Council of Churches, was among 386 faith leaders who gathered at the Civil Protection Unit for a Resource Mobilisation and Economic Strengthening Strategic meeting.
The meeting aimed to unite organizations in the fight against drug and substance abuse with representatives from Ebenezer Transformation Center, Center of Hope, Islamic Supreme Council of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Amalgamated Council of Churches and Global Methodist Church among others.
Dr Phiri emphasized the importance of faith leaders working with the government to address this issue, urging them to respect their families and communities.
“As faith leaders, we have a responsibility to stand united against the scourge of drug and substance abuse that is tearing apart our communities. We must work hand-in-hand with the government to address this issue and restore dignity to our families and societies.”
“We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to act now. Let us rise up and be the change we want to see.”
“The Bible says, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Today, I ask, are we loving our neighbors when we allow drug abuse to destroy their lives? Are we loving our communities when we turn a blind eye to this crisis? No, my friends, it is time for action. Let us show love, compassion and courage in the face of this epidemic.”
“We are not just fighting against drug abuse; we are fighting for the soul of our nation. We are fighting for the future of our children, for the stability of our families, and for the prosperity of our communities. Let us stand together, faith leaders and government and say ‘enough is enough’ to drug and substance abuse in Zimbabwe,” he said.
Civil Protection Unit Chief Director Hon Nkomo thanked faith leaders for supporting President’s vision call to action, while Dr Lina Madzinga, Chairperson of Ebenezer Transformation Center, appreciated the government’s inclusion of faith leaders in developmental programs.
The meeting concluded with Rev Dr Phiri leading a prayer campaign against drug and substance misuse, encouraging faith leaders to love their families, societies, and nation.
This collaborative effort highlights the critical role faith-based organizations play in addressing social issues. Rev Dr Phiri’s International Preachers Council of Churches is working in partnership with Ebenezer Transformation Center in fighting Drug and Substance addiction.
