The Scout programme is very much based on learning how to take responsible decisions and lead a healthy lifestyle, however this way of life is not followed by all young people in Zimbabwe. The Scouts have therefore embarked on an ambitious outreach programme, concentrating on:
- Working with other organizations to support existing education programmes aimed at young people
- Carrying out community service projects related to drugs and health promotion
- Health promotion at school open days, trade fairs and other community events.
A key technique is the use of peer education as this is a strong influence in risk-reduction behaviour. Peer education can be implemented economically, and frequently has an additional impact on families and neighbours.
Scouts who are trained as peer health promoters can have a strong, positive influence on their friends and classmates and often gain long-term benefits from their experiences. These include an on-going commitment to responsible behaviour in reproductive health, leadership skills, and personal development.
The Scouts aim to train 240 patrol leaders in each province, and through them directly reach at least 30,000 young people each year.