IN a move set to ratchet the fight against drug and substance abuse in Manicaland province, award-winning and fast-rising gospel sensation Caroline Chidzikwe has been appointed brand ambassador for Manicaland Artistes against Drugs and Substance Abuse.
Known as Mai Chidzikwe in the gospel musical circles, the Mutare-based diva was accorded the status by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) Manicaland yesterday.
NACZ Manicaland provincial manager Carol Makoni confirmed the development yesterday.
“NACZ came up with the initiative titled Manicaland Artistes Against Drug and Substance Abuse. The cultural and creative industry is one of the hardest hit sectors as far as the drug and substance abuse scourge is concerned,” she said.
“We have appointed award-winning gospel music diva Carol Chidzikwe brand ambassador for the campaign. As a sector, we are doing our part in complementing government efforts to curb the rise of the malpractice.”
Makoni added: “The campaign is mainly targeting the youths and young people in general. A music concert in which several artistes are billed to perform is on the cards. There will be, inter alia, discussion fora and motivational talks with the Mai Chidzikwe has recorded a song titled Gonye Ngariparare, which encourages people to desist from taking drugs.
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In an interview with NewsDay Life & Style, the gospel diva said she was elated about her new role.
“As an artiste, it is my passion to spread hope and positivity. I am happy with this appointment and to me, it is a strategic move to leverage on my platform and reach a wider audience, particularly among the youth,” Mai Chidzikwe said.
“My involvement in this campaign will bring a fresh wave of energy and creativity, inspiring others to join the fight against drug and substance abuse.”
With her powerful voice and inspiring lyrics, Mai Chidzikwe has quickly become a household name on the gospel music scene and her influence is expected to be a game-changer in the battle against the vice.
She was first runner-up in the Women in Arts and Culture award in October 2023, courtesy of Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce.
With her new role, Mai Chidzikwe is poised to use her music and influence to make a lasting impact on her community, spreading messages of hope, redemption and empowerment.
As she embarks on this new journey, her voice will be a beacon of light, shining bright in the fight against drug and substance abuse in Manicaland.