Zimbabwean Youth Drive Innovative Solutions Against Drug and Alcohol Abuse at 2025 Challenge
Zimbabwean youth are taking a leading role in addressing drug and alcohol abuse, presenting inventive solutions at the 2025 Smart Drinking and Moderation Innovation Challenge in Harare.
Coordinated by the BOOST Fellowship in collaboration with Delta Corporation, the event brought together university students and young entrepreneurs developing strategies to promote responsible drinking and combat the country’s growing substance abuse crisis.
Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe highlighted the importance of youth-led initiatives in complementing government action against illegal substances. “The Government of Zimbabwe is taking decisive action in addressing the scale of drug and substance abuse,” he said, noting the Zimbabwe Multisectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030) launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The plan enforces a zero-tolerance approach across four tiers, from national institutions to local communities, and aims to strengthen laws targeting drug suppliers.
Participants showcased a range of innovations, including drink-tracking mobile applications, alcohol-free entertainment options, and peer-led education models. Live demonstrations allowed attendees to engage directly with the proposed solutions, while top entries were recognised for their potential real-world impact.
BOOST Fellowship Executive Director Tinashe Mushonga said the programme has engaged students from 14 universities and reached over 20,000 people across Zimbabwe. “Our programmes are empowering young people to reject drugs and harmful drinking practices, and more innovations are still on the way,” he said.
Young innovators emphasised the urgency of addressing substance abuse. Venus, a recent A-level graduate, expressed her commitment to mobilising youth groups to advocate for healthier lifestyles and safeguard future ambitions. “I want to build a group that says no to drugs and no to destroying dreams through substance abuse,” she said.
Social work students from the Women’s University in Africa highlighted how rising drug and alcohol misuse undermines academic performance and institutional reputation, reinforcing the need for preventive initiatives.
Organisers say the Smart Drinking and Moderation Innovation Challenge is part of a broader national effort to promote healthier communities and reshape social attitudes toward alcohol. Both BOOST Fellowship and Delta Corporation pledged continued support for youth-led solutions tackling one of Zimbabwe’s most pressing social challenges.
