Heal Us Zimbabwe Launches 543km Walkathon to Tackle Drug and Substance Abuse

In a bold step to confront Zimbabwe’s growing drug and substance abuse crisis, Heal Us Zimbabwe has launched a nationwide awareness initiative—a 543-kilometre walkathon from Plumtree to Harare. The campaign, which spans 23 days, aims to raise public awareness, mobilise communities, and demand stronger policy responses to one of the country’s most pressing social challenges.

The walkathon, which officially kicked off this week, will pass through several towns and cities, offering a platform for dialogue, education, and healing. At each stop, participants will hold community workshops, engage with local leaders, and give survivors of substance abuse the chance to share their personal stories. These testimonies are intended to inspire action and foster empathy across all sectors of society.

Columbus Tapiwa Mushore, founder and chairman of Heal Us Zimbabwe, described the walkathon as “a journey of hope, solidarity, and action.” He emphasised the urgent need to rescue Zimbabwean youth from the grip of addiction.

“For each kilometre walked, we hope to raise US$1,000 towards the fight against drug and substance abuse,” said Mushore. “Our goal is to raise over half a million dollars, which will go toward building rehabilitation centres and supporting grassroots community initiatives.”

The initiative comes in the wake of rising concerns over widespread drug use in Zimbabwe, particularly among the youth. The campaign aims not only to spotlight the issue but also to generate tangible support for those battling addiction.

Tapiwa Nyati, executive director and vice-chairperson of Heal Us Zimbabwe, reflected on the success of last year’s inaugural walkathon, which stretched from Beitbridge to Harare—covering 586 kilometres.

“Last year’s walkathon gave us a chance to visit five provinces, where we held collaborative events with government officials, civic leaders, and families affected by drug abuse,” Nyati said. “We provided support and resources to those who needed help, and this year, we aim to go even further.”

The Plumtree-to-Harare route will traverse Matabeleland South, Midlands, and Mashonaland provinces, with large-scale community outreach events planned at each key stop. The organisation is also calling on the corporate sector, civil society, and government ministries to join in supporting the initiative.

As the walkathon gains momentum, Heal Us Zimbabwe hopes it will serve as both a wake-up call and a rallying point—urging the country to act decisively to protect future generations.

With rising participation and growing public interest, this campaign stands as one of the most ambitious and impactful grassroots efforts in Zimbabwe’s ongoing fight against drug and substance abuse.