The Matebeleland South Youth Seminar which was held on the 11th of March 2023 in Gwanda Matabeleland South province was a huge success where several districts in the region were present on which amongst them were Headquarters (HQ), Beitbridge, Bulilima, Matobo and Insiza.
Written By Vigilant Sebata
Giving his religious note, Evangelist N Tshuma outlined the importance of the youths in the congregation.
In his speech he said ‘Sifuna ukuthi abantwana bazwisise ukuthi ukholo lwe Guta Ra Mwari luyini njalo bazwisise ukuthi imimoya isebenza njani ebantwini…. Sicelela abantwana ukuthi bakhulele ekulungeni bakhulise ibandla ngenzalo yokulunga, ngobuqotho, ngenkuthalo lokuthembeka’( We want the children to understand the essence of Guta Ra Mwari religion and understand how various spirits work amongst people...we pray to God that the children grow through righteousness,determination and faithfulness as they are the future leaders.)
He went on to urge youths to obey their elders and abide by the standing orders. Where he quoted on the Combined Volumes topic 189 ' vuma ukwelulekwa’
In the seminar, there were three topics. The main topic focused on teenage pregnancies and substance abuse. Invited guests were from the Ministry of Health and ZRP-Public Relations and CID alongside Elder H Moyo
The invited guests taught the youths on understanding the causes, dangers and ways to minimize and stop teenage pregnancies and substance abuse in the society. Amongst the causes of teenage pregnancies and substance abuse are peer pressure, seeking attention, availability of drugs, stress, curiosity and ignorance.
Dangers of teenage pregnancy and substance abuse to name a few are: school dropouts, abuse, isolation, damaged relationships, financial distress and health problems. Possible solutions included awareness campaigns, religious teachings and workshops, choosing friends wisely, seeking counseling and being goal oriented.
The CIDs emphasized that finding one in the possession of drugs whether by choice or oppression it’s an offence. The youths were urged to report anyone selling drugs and skin lightening products. They concluded by stating that anyone below the age of 16 is not allowed in dating because older man tend to be the predators to young girls.
The second topic focused on the essence of Guta Ra Mwari religion. It was in a panel discussion format where youths were also involved in giving their opinions. After this topic the youths expressed their understanding by answering the questions asked.
Panelists
The final topic focused on ideal good habits/routine of a Guta Ra Mwari child. Morning routine and time management were discussed so as to maintain a healthy diet.
When explaining Afternoon and evening routine, it was noted that some drinks such as the fizzy drinks are not good for health and we were urged to take increase water intake on daily basis and reduce junk food intake.
Financial literacy was explained to the youths and it entailed how to handle money after getting wages /salaries. It was outlined that in Guta Ra Mwari we are not forced to contribute a 10% of our earnings but as a person you only contribute what you afford to at the end of the month.
In his closing remarks Evangelist Muleya said ‘Silenhlanhla yokuba phakathi kokholo lwe Guta Ra Mwari…. ngakho bantwana thandani ukulunga’( We are blessed to be in Guta RaMwari...therefore children love to be righteous)
He concluded by thanking the parents and congregants by accompanying the youths to such seminars where they taught and empowered with great teachings.