Game On Against Drugs: NetOne Deploys Technology and Sport in Fight to Protect Youth

Zimbabwe’s national campaign against drug and substance abuse gained fresh momentum at the Anti-Drug and Substance Abuse Sports Gala held at Garwe Stadium, where NetOne partnered Government ministries to promote youth protection through sport and digital outreach.

The event, held in Chikomba West, brought together several senior Government officials, including the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Lieutenant General (Retired) Hon A. Sanyatwe; the Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Hon. Tatenda Mavetera, MP; and the Minister of State for Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. O. Ndudzo.

Their attendance reinforced President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s national call for communities and institutions to intensify efforts to safeguard young people from drug abuse.

NetOne’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Raphael Mushanawani

NetOne, the main corporate participant, positioned the gala as part of its broader national strategy to address drug abuse through community outreach, youth engagement and digital awareness campaigns. The telecommunications provider says drug and substance abuse has become a critical social and economic threat, particularly to young people, and requires coordinated responses across sectors.

Sporting activities dominated the programme, with organisers highlighting the role of structured physical activity in promoting discipline, teamwork and healthy behaviour among young people. The gala aimed to provide positive alternatives for youth while strengthening community mobilisation against harmful substances.

NetOne’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, said the company is using its digital platforms to expand the reach of anti-drug messaging across the country.

“Connectivity alone is not enough. Towers, fibre, broadband — these must become channels of empowerment, education and awareness,” Mushanawani said. “Our networks must serve as lines of defence, keeping young people informed, inspired and engaged.”

Under its pillars of health, education and empowerment, NetOne has been distributing digital content on drug abuse, sharing awareness material on social media, and working with schools and community groups to promote prevention and early intervention.

The company says integrating sport with digital education provides a comprehensive approach that strengthens both physical and mental well-being among young people.

Officials at the event stated that the Chikomba West programme forms part of ongoing national efforts to reduce drug exposure, support community resilience and align with Vision 2030 priorities on health and youth development.

NetOne indicated that it will continue expanding anti-drug initiatives through technology, community programmes and youth-centred interventions.