By ZBC Reporter
Zimbabwe is not a drug and illegal substance producer or peddler and trends to do so will be expunged to defend the country and the youth, who are the future, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said.
The President was addressing youths at Lupane State University during the National Youth Day commemorations which were also attended by Vice President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga and other senior government officials.
He said security at the country’s ports of entry is being tightened to plug the movement and proliferation of harmful drugs and substances, adding the review of legislation and related policy measures on drug and substance abuse is also receiving urgent attention.
“As a Government, we recognise the importance of treatment, care, rehabilitation, pyscho-social support and re-integration as important pillars in fighting Drug and Substance abuse. To this end, my Government is setting up specialised medical facilities to provide services to drug addicts and survivors of substance abuse. Equally, greater focus is being given to strengthen the delivery of quality services in the mental health sub-sector and provision of related psycho-social support nets.”
President Mnangagwa urged the youths to desist from violent tendencies as the country heads for harmonised elections this year.
“The majority of you, our young people will be voting, in these elections, some for the first time. I challenge you to exercise this sacred right, responsibly, aware that it was paid for by the blood of many sons and daughters of Zimbabwe, some of whom were your age. As per the requirement of the Constitution, our country will soon be holding our Harmonised General Elections. As a peace-loving people, let us continue to guard and protect the stability we are enjoying in our nation by saying NO to violence and rejecting those bent on causing mayhem, turmoil and insecurity in our nation,” he said.
The National Youth Day commemorations bring together youths and various other stakeholders in the fight against drug and substance abuse under the theme, “Drug and substance abuse, a threat to vision 2030; every community’s responsibility,” in recognition of the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to fighting the vice.
