TSHAVHALOVHEDZI – More than 150 youths from Tshavhalovhedzi village near Makhado have organized themselves with common goals in mind – to fight against HIV/AIDS, to keep themselves away from drugs, criminal activities and unprotected sexual behaviour and to develop and nurture their own talents.

They call themselves the Masetoni Youth Development Club and since they started operating last year, the rate of crime and drug abuse has been drastically reduced in the village. They hold their meetings in the local church on weekends and youths take part in sports, drama, modern and traditional dances and debating sessions.

The chairperson of the club, Alex Nevhudogwa (22), said the institution is also aimed at restoring the dignity and moral degeneration of the youth so that they can take part in the development of their own societies.

“We teach the youths to believe in themselves and to prepare themselves for the future challenges in their lives. We hold motivational sessions and we also teach them the dangers of HIV/AIDS and how they can live without engaging themselves in criminal activities. We aim to open opportunities for the youths so that they rely upon themselves when they grow up. We also identify their talents and encourage the youths to utilize these talents profitably for their own benefit.”

Nevhudogwa said the club is preparing for an award ceremony to honour the best youth performers in last year’s final examinations.

“We want to instill a culture of learning and we believe the awards will plant the spirit of competitive learning in the village. The function will serve as motivation to those who performed well, but it will also encourage those who did not do well to pull up their socks…”

Although the activities of the club are running smoothly, Nevhudogwa cited some problems that are hampering progress.

“Financial problems and a shortage of rehearsal space are some of the major problems that are crippling the club. Sometimes it is very difficult to interact with other provincial youth clubs because we don’t have funds to hire transport. We also fail to pitch up at different competitions as a result of the transport problem. We also need a bigger space for rehearsal as we are currently using a church. Club members need sports equipment and uniforms but we can’t afford to buy them. We will be grateful for assistance from the community as we are working to develop the future leaders of our country.”

Nevhudogwa concluded by thanking parents for the kind support they have shown since the formation of the club.

“They have been very supportive and we thank them for allowing their kids to take part in the activities of the club. We still need more of their support and we hope we will closely work together for the benefit of the local community.”

Those who would like to know more about the club or to make donations can contact Nevhudogwa at 073 459 1932.