Scoring Against Drugs: A Football Tournament with a Purpose

On 28 June, Viva Network Zimbabwe, in partnership with Destiny Mission Organization, hosted the Anti-Drug Abuse Under-12s Football Tournament. This community event was more than sport; it was a movement to protect children from the growing danger of substance abuse by reaching them through something they love: football.

Twelve teams of boys under the age of 12 from Mabvuku, Tafara, and Eastview gathered to play, learn, and grow together. Over 380 children participated, with support from 167 adults and 13 community stakeholders. They came together for a single purpose to send a message: our children deserve a future free from drugs.

What made the tournament special was the mix of football and learning. The boys didn’t just play matches they also attended awareness sessions, watched a powerful anti-drug drama, and heard real stories from community leaders and mentors. These messages didn’t come from textbooks, but from relatable people in their communities, on their home ground, in a language they understood. That’s impact.

The lessons extended beyond drug awareness. Through football, the boys learned teamwork, discipline, communication, and respect qualities that help them make better decisions off the pitch. These are the tools they need to resist peer pressure, build resilience, and choose a healthier path.

The event was the result of tireless planning and teamwork. Viva Network Zimbabwe and Destiny Mission Organisation worked closely with the City of Harare to secure the venue. Volunteers, youth workers, and sponsors came together with one goal: to create a safe, meaningful experience for the children. Partners like Bakers Inn, SMILE, Hands On Technical College, Greenway Funeral Services, and the National AIDS Council helped bring the day to life.

Thanks to these supporters, the children received refreshments, had access to safe play zones, and engaged in creative activities. Trophies and soccer balls were prepared, though final awards were put on hold due to discipline concerns a decision made to reinforce the values of fairness, integrity, and accountability.

This event was about more than who scored the most goals. It was about making sure every child left with more hope, more knowledge, and a stronger sense of belonging. For many, it was their first time taking part in something this big. The joy on their faces told the full story.

An evaluation process is underway to gather feedback from children, coaches, and community leaders, which will shape future tournaments. The vision is bigger than one event it’s about creating a movement that continues to grow and reach more children across Zimbabwe.

Viva Network Zimbabwe is proud to walk this journey with Destiny Mission Organisation and every partner who believes that children deserve a drug-free, hope-filled future. Because when we reach children early, before the streets do, we don’t just protect potential we unlock it.

Let’s keep playing. Let’s keep teaching. Let’s keep protecting. Together, we are raising a generation that says “No to drugs” and “Yes to life.”