Story by Tamuka Charakupa
SANYATI District has joined Mashonaland West Province’s intensified campaign against drug and substance abuse, with stakeholders converging at Jameson High School to strengthen community-led interventions aimed at tackling the growing scourge.
The engagement, organised by the Provincial Drug and Substance Abuse Technical Committee, brought together traditional leaders, Government departments, churches, law enforcement agencies and community representatives as part of a coordinated response to the challenge.
Participants raised concern over the increasing abuse of hard drugs such as cocaine and crystal meth, as well as the spread of illicit brews in rural communities, which have been linked to rising incidents of violence and criminal activity.
Traditional leaders, led by Chief Neuso pledged to mobilise communities and strengthen awareness campaigns to prevent drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people.
Law enforcement agencies said efforts to dismantle drug syndicates and curb the distribution of illegal substances have been intensified as authorities seek to protect communities from the harmful effects of drug abuse.
Provincial officials emphasised that combating drug and substance abuse requires a collective approach involving Government institutions, traditional leaders, churches, parents and local communities.
The awareness campaign forms part of broader efforts under the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan and seeks to strengthen prevention, rehabilitation and community reintegration programmes.
The five-day programme will also feature sporting activities involving schools and local communities, before concluding on Friday with a closing address by Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo.
