Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
ZIMBABWE has made significant strides in combating drug and substance abuse, through harnessing a comprehensive multi-sectoral approach that involves government, the private sector and communities.
Presenting a report at the 68th Session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs underway in Vienna, Austria, Public Health Advisor to the President and Cabinet Dr Agnes Mahomva, who is leading the Zimbabwean delegation, outlined the country’s progress in the fight against drug abuse.
“On supply reduction efforts, Zimbabwe intensified its efforts to combat drug trafficking through various initiatives. The National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse (NCDSA) conducted 79 successful anti-drug trafficking operations, resulting in the destruction of illegal drug bases and the confiscation of drugs worth approximately ZiG$180.6 million. Cross-border cooperation was enhanced, leading to the interception of drug traffickers. This collaboration with other international law enforcement agencies has effectively curbed drug dealings.
“The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) conducted 872 inspections of licensed premises and carried out 177 enforcement activities to unlicensed premises resulting in the closure of non-compliant premises. Zimbabwe’s demand reduction efforts reached millions of citizens, particularly young people.
“In the education sector, government 7 062 000 students through integrated drug abuse awareness and workshops while 155 000 young people were assisted with vocational skills. Faith-based organisations and private voluntary organizations continue to intensify outreach programmes in marginalised areas. Harm reduction, treatment and rehabilitation, strong collaboration between the government, private sector, and other stakeholders have resulted in enhanced treatment programmes,” she said.
Zimbabwe has also strengthened its legal framework to combat drug abuse.
“Zimbabwe continues to strengthen its legal framework to combat drug abuse, and to date, the Dangerous Drugs Act was reviewed whilst the Drug and Substance Abuse Control Agency Draft Bill is being finalised. The Bill will enhance the coordination of the national response to drug and substance abuse. Pursuant to the pledge at the 67th Session, Zimbabwe has identified at least one standalone rehabilitation facility in each of the ten provinces and resource mobilisation is underway to implement the programme,” Dr Mahomva said.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa launched the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan 2024-2030 in June last year.
The plan provides strategic direction to the nation’s response to the drug and substance abuse menace, with focus on supply reduction, demand reduction, harm reduction, treatment, and rehabilitation.
