Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
In a significant milestone in the fight against drug and substance abuse, the Abused Substances Diagnostics and Management (ASDM) Project has handed over modern drug testing equipment to the Zimbabwe Government Analyst Laboratory.
The ASDM Project, a coalition of institutions, including the University of Zimbabwe’s Chemical Pathology Unit, the Zimbabwe College of Pathology, and FaStep Zimbabwe, working together to provide a comprehensive programme addressing the impact of substance abuse, handed over the drug testing equipment worth US$60 000 to the Government Analyst Laboratory this Thursday.
Handing over the equipment, Principal Investigator at the ASD Project, Professor Hilda Matarira emphasised the importance of the move which speaks to saving lives.
“Today, we are handing over state-of-the-art drug testing equipment to the Zimbabwe Government Analyst Laboratory, a step that reaffirms our unwavering commitment to supporting national efforts in combating drug and substance abuse,” she said.
“Early detection of substance abuse is key to timely intervention, and this is why drug testing must be a priority in various sectors of society: Schools and Tertiary Institutions: Our children and students are the future of Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, substance abuse among young people is rising, often starting within school and college environments.
“Regular drug testing in educational institutions will serve as both a deterrent and a means of early intervention, ensuring that students receive the necessary support before their lives take a dangerous turn. Public transport services road safety is paramount. The increasing number of road accidents linked to drug and alcohol use among public transport operators is alarming. Implementing routine drug testing for drivers and transport workers will enhance safety on our roads and protect innocent passengers and pedestrians.”
The Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Honourable Sleiman Kwidini acknowledged the critical role of partners like ASDM in the fight against substance abuse.
“This donation will significantly strengthen our ongoing efforts to detect and monitor drug use, which is essential for both prevention and treatment. Accurate and timely testing enables us to intervene early, guide rehabilitation efforts, and provide the necessary care to those affected,” Honourable Kwidini said.
“It will also empower our law enforcement and health professionals to more effectively identify harmful substances circulating in our communities, ensuring that we respond to the evolving nature of drug abuse in an evidence-based manner. Moreover, this equipment will support the efforts of His Excellency, President Dr E.D Mnangagwa, and the National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse by providing key statistics that will inform national policy.
“Historically, our ability to combat substance abuse has been constrained by limited resources and outdated equipment. Today marks a turning point. With this advanced technology, the government Analyst Laboratory will be better equipped to detect and combat substance abuse helping to protect our young people and other vulnerable groups from the devastating effects of drug addiction. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the critical role of our partners, ASDM, who continue to stand with us in this fight.”
The donated equipment will enable the Government Analyst Laboratory to conduct accurate and timely testing, facilitating early intervention and rehabilitation efforts.
This will also empower law enforcement and health professionals to identify harmful substances and respond to the evolving nature of drug abuse.
The testing programme will initially target specific sectors, including the transport sector, with testing available to public transport drivers, public service drivers, and government school drivers, among others.
Testing will be offered free of charge for a limited period, followed by a nominal fee to cover expenses.
