Story by Peter Chivhima
THE Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ), Air Marshal Jacob John Nzvede, has reaffirmed the force’s zero-tolerance policy on drug and substance abuse, warning that indiscipline poses a direct threat to operational effectiveness, national security and family stability.
Addressing Air Force members and their spouses at Manyame Air Force Base on Saturday, Air Marshal Nzvede urged personnel to uphold the highest standards of conduct, cautioning against drugs, excessive alcohol consumption and gambling, which he described as corrosive vices that undermine professionalism and cohesion within the defence forces.
He said the AFZ remains guided by the national position articulated by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who has declared drug and substance abuse a serious threat to Zimbabwe’s health, security, economy and social fabric.
“Another vice that we, as a family, need to tackle is the abuse of drugs, alcohol, and other illicit substances. The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, His Excellency, Cde Dr ED Mnangagwa, has declared drug and substance abuse as a threat to the nation’s health, security, economy, and social stability,” he said.
While addressing the nation ahead of this festive season, Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba warned the public to desist from the scourge, saying those caught on the wrong side will face the full wrath of the law.
“My office has directed Officer Commanding Provinces to take stern action on illegal liquor outlets during this holiday. Liquor outlets operating outside stipulated hours,” he said.
The warning comes at a time when many people are falling victim to drug and substance abuse.
However, the government remains committed to addressing the scourge, with several measures already underway, including the establishment of rehabilitation centres across the country to assist affected individuals.
