HWPL and IPYG Join Hands with Government and Religious Leaders to Conduct Drug Prevention and Environmental Cleanup Campaigns

HWPL and IPYG Join Hands with Government and Religious Leaders

to Conduct Drug Prevention and Environmental Cleanup Campaigns

The Zambia branch of the international peace NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and the Youth Empowerment Peace Workshop (YEPW), conducted a campaign under the theme "Clean Up, Crime Down" in the Mandevu area of Lusaka, Zambia, to mark the United Nations (UN)-designated International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The campaign aimed to promote drug prevention and encourage the creation of a cleaner, healthier environment.

The campaign was organized to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, with the goal of raising awareness among young people about the dangers of drug abuse while encouraging them to help improve their local environment. The initiative was made even more meaningful through the participation of Zambian government agencies, health and environmental organizations, religious leaders, and community representatives. It was particularly noteworthy for bringing together stakeholders from diverse sectors to work toward a shared goal.

During the event, participants attended a drug prevention education session that highlighted how drug abuse can have serious consequences not only for an individual's health but also for their education, relationships, and future. Betty Phiri, Coordinator of the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), said, "Drug prevention is a responsible choice that protects young people's health, education, relationships, and future. Choosing to say no to drugs and helping friends make the right decisions are small actions that can become meaningful acts of peace."

Following the educational session, participants took part in an environmental cleanup campaign along the route from Ngombe Clinic to New Ngombe Market. The Lusaka City Council and local organizations provided garbage collection trucks and cleaning equipment, while participants worked alongside community residents to collect litter and help create cleaner streets.

Nkisu Katemangwe, a Lusaka City Youth Councillor who participated in the volunteer activity, said, "Working alongside volunteers who are dedicated to serving the community has been a great source of inspiration for me. I will continue to take greater responsibility in protecting our local environment and actively contribute to future community cleanup efforts."

In particular, the campaign served as an excellent example of how voluntary youth participation and collaboration among multiple organizations can create a positive impact, and it was featured by major local media outlets. The HWPL Zambia Branch plans to continue its monthly "Clean Up, Crime Down" campaign and gradually expand the initiative throughout Lusaka. Although the word "peace" may sometimes seem abstract, healthy lifestyles, a clean environment, and small acts of consideration for one another are the first steps toward building a more peaceful society.

Reference : https://vo.la/KWq1Trk