Story by Tino Zirongwe
THE Government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug and substance abuse through the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030), which identifies a healthy, productive and drug-free population as critical to achieving sustainable socio-economic development and Vision 2030.
The commitment was reinforced during a two-day strategic workshop on drug and substance abuse held in Chinhoyi on Wednesday, where government departments in Mashonaland West met to strengthen provincial strategies against the growing social challenge.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe, Deputy Minister Honourable Albert Tawanda Mavhunga stressed the importance of working closely with traditional leaders and local authorities.
“Ministry staff work hand in glove with traditional leadership and local authority structures, and we rely on them for community reach, legitimacy and implementation on the ground. What we share here must flow into the communities where it matters most,” he said.
Honourable Mavhunga said tackling drug and substance abuse requires a coordinated national response.
“As Government, we have a collective responsibility to promote awareness, prevention, rehabilitation and reintegration. The Mashonaland West Provincial Drug and Substance Abuse Task Force has intensified district awareness campaigns across the province. Three districts have already been covered, and the programme is now being rolled out in Chegutu,” he said.
Law enforcement officials also warned of emerging drug threats affecting communities.
Officer Commanding CID Drugs and Narcotics, Dale Cornelius, urged parents and communities to remain vigilant.
“Let’s not ignore cocaine; it’s already in circulation within communities. Some drugs are being added to beverages and remain colourless. Young people must also be cautious at parties, where toxic substances are even being concealed in bangles and absorbed through the skin,” he said.
District Community Liaison Officer for CID Drugs and Narcotics, Andrew Muzhanje, encouraged members of the public to report drug-related activities using existing reporting platforms.
“There are platforms for whistleblowing, including suggestion boxes, local police stations, toll-free numbers and WhatsApp lines, where people can report drug and substance abuse activities in their communities,” he said.
Government established an inter-ministerial committee to spearhead the national response, guided by the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030).
