The assessment of Zimbabwe’s response to drug and substance abuse has revealed encouraging progress in Mashonaland East Province.
Speaking after leading a National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse assessment tour of Mashonaland East Province, yesterday, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Soda Zhemu, said the committee focused on assessing interventions being implemented at provincial level and their effectiveness in addressing a problem that has become one of the country’s major social challenges.
“The National Committee toured Mashonaland East Province to assess its response to drug and substance abuse. The scourge is taking a heavy toll on our youths, whose future is being undermined by drug and substance abuse,” he said.
He said the province had put in place comprehensive interventions covering supply reduction, demand management, treatment and rehabilitation, reflecting a coordinated approach to addressing the crisis.
“The province has demonstrated strategies in supply reduction, demand management, treatment and rehabilitation. We also witnessed a repurposed facility that is now serving as a rehabilitation centre, which is a significant step in ensuring that those affected receive the support they need,” said Dr Zhemu.
The minister commended provincial authorities and stakeholders for the progress achieved, saying the efforts demonstrated commitment to implementing Government policy at grassroots level.
“The establishment of rehabilitation facilities was a critical component of the national strategy, as it provided opportunities for recovery and reintegration of individuals affected by substance abuse,” he said.
Dr Zhemu also paid tribute to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for spearheading the country’s coordinated response to drug and substance abuse through the establishment of a national task force.
“I want to express my gratitude to His Excellency President Mnangagwa for establishing a national response mechanism through the task force. This approach ensures inclusivity so that no place and no one is left behind,” he said.
Zimbabwe has intensified its campaign against drug and substance abuse through a multi-sectoral approach involving Government ministries, law enforcement agencies, health institutions, traditional leaders, churches and community organisations.
The strategy seeks to reduce the supply of illicit substances while strengthening prevention programmes, expanding access to rehabilitation services and promoting awareness campaigns, particularly among young people who remain the most vulnerable to the growing menace.
