Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
GOVERNMENT continues to collaborate with various stakeholders in stepping up the fight against drug and substance abuse, with a strong focus on safeguarding youths and school children.
In Bikita, the community has taken a firm stand against the menace, coming together to raise awareness on the growing challenge that continues to threaten the lives and future of young people.
The campaign was organised by the Bikita District Civil Protection Committee in partnership with the Progressive and Patriotic Citizens of Zimbabwe, with particular focus on school-going children and youths who remain among the most affected.
“As school-going children, one of the things that affects us is peer pressure. Many are dropping out of school because of drugs,” student, Anesu Mupuwi said.
“Many youths are becoming victims of drug and substance abuse. It is sad that sometimes these drugs are supplied within the community, and it is disturbing because some end up becoming violent at school,” Nigel Mbarangi said.
Grain Marketing Board Chief Executive Officer Dr Edson Bhadharai, who grew up in Bikita and attended the event as a role model, encouraged learners to stay focused and avoid drugs.
“As school-going children, it is important to focus on your studies because drugs destroy your future. Many people fail to recover and end up committing crimes,” he said.
Local leadership concur that the fight against drug abuse is a collective responsibility, calling for stringent measures to bring drug suppliers to book.
“The drug menace is no longer just a problem in urban areas; it has spread to rural communities. Our children are dying, and others now have mental health issues. We continue to urge parents and community leaders to look after their children and teach them about the dangers of drugs,” Chief Marozva said.
“Our law enforcement agents must work closely with communities to ensure drug peddlers face the full wrath of the law,” Bikita West legislator, Honourable Daniel Makusha said.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, said the government remains committed to eliminating drug and substance abuse.
“The fight against drug and substance abuse knows no boundary, geography, or class. It is a national fight that demands national unity. We need more hands-on deck and more voices in homes, schools, churches, and communities. Together, we must create an environment where discipline, hard work, and patriotism flourish,” he said.
Government is rolling out several interventions, including establishing rehabilitation centres, intensifying awareness campaigns, and creating recreational facilities for young people across the country, to mitigate the impact of drug abuse.
