Story by Tamuka Charakupa
THE government has intensified its campaign against drug and substance abuse in Kadoma, calling for a whole-of-society response to curb the growing scourge affecting communities nationwide.
As part of the awareness drive, prison inmates are sharing their experiences with drugs and the consequences of substance abuse, offering cautionary lessons aimed at discouraging others from engaging in drug-related activities.
One of the inmates, 32-year-old Rutendo Dube who is serving a sentence for drug peddling, said she was drawn into the trade after returning from South Africa, lured by the promise of quick financial gain.
“At first, I was hesitant because I did not use drugs myself, but the promise of fast money convinced me. My home became a place where people would come looking for drugs, and it was even called ‘Kwa Mainini’. I thought I was making money, but I was destroying my life. The law eventually caught up with me, and I realised that crime may seem profitable at first, but it eventually ruins your life,” Dube said.
She said some of her customers included young people and school children, something she now deeply regrets.
“What hurts most is seeing some of those same young people here in prison, losing important years of their lives. I regret that my actions contributed to their downfall,” she said.
Another inmate, 22-year-old Vimbai Zimuto who is serving time for theft after battling drug addiction, warned young people about the dangers of substance abuse.
“I started using drugs with friends, thinking it was just for fun, but soon became addicted. I left home and stayed along the Kadoma railway line. When I could no longer afford drugs, I began stealing from those close to me to support my habit. My message to young people, especially women, is that drugs will destroy your life and future,” she said.
Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo said tackling drug abuse requires a coordinated response involving communities, institutions and law enforcement.
“The government is implementing a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach in tackling the drug menace. Communities, parents, schools, churches, and law enforcement agencies must work together to protect our young people from the dangers of drugs. Prevention, law enforcement, and rehabilitation must all work hand in hand if we are to defeat this challenge,” she said.
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Honourable Torerayi Moyo added that the Anti-Drug Steering Committee is stepping up efforts to arrest drug dealers while supporting rehabilitation and reintegration for those struggling with addiction.
Church leaders have also joined the campaign, urging communities to restore social values and support rehabilitation efforts.
“Families, churches, schools, and community leaders must guide our children and restore values that protect them from destructive paths. Those who have fallen into drugs must be supported through rehabilitation, counselling, and spiritual guidance so they can rebuild their lives,” said Mr Douglas Kwande of the African Seventh Day Adventist Church.
Authorities say prevention, law enforcement and rehabilitation remain the cornerstone of the government’s strategy to combat drug and substance abuse.
