Arts Reporter
Chitungwiza recently played host to the 2024 Shoko Festival, a dynamic event aimed at combating the rising issue of drug and substance abuse within local communities.
The festival, which featured a blend of both emerging and established musical actors, was designed as a platform for education, prevention, and awareness.
The highlight of the festival, aptly named "Peace in the Hood," took place in Chitungwiza, Unit L Community Hall Grounds.
The event brought together musicians, dancers, and community members, all united by a common goal: to address the drug abuse crisis threatening the region's youth.
“This festival is critical for our community. We are losing too many young people to drug abuse. Events like this, with music and dance, can help raise awareness and bring about change," said Emmanuel Chizivano, a concerned resident.
Local leaders and stakeholders were also present, voicing their alarm over dangerous practices such as "Bluetoothing," where groups of young people pool money to purchase drugs, often sharing needles or engaging in other high-risk behaviours.
One community advocate highlighted the recklessness of this practice, stating, "When I asked about the risk of disease transmission, they told me HIV is not a concern because it can be managed with ARVs. This shows the serious lack of awareness about the health dangers involved."
The festival served as a rallying cry to reclaim urban spaces that have been overrun by drug use.
Through music, dance, and collective action, participants reaffirmed their commitment to restoring moral values and supporting at-risk youth in the fight against substance abuse.
"We must spread awareness among our peers and children about the real dangers of drug use," said one festival participant, emphasising the urgency of the issue.
As the festival concluded, the key message was that the fight against drug abuse requires community-driven initiatives like the Shoko Festival to inspire change and protect the next generation.
