Online Reporter
Trust Freddy
Herald Correspondent
ABOUT 32 000 drug peddlers have been arrested in the campaign against drug and substance abuse, with more than 18 000 addicts being treated.
Speaking at the commissioning of new treatment centres managed by Red Cross Society at Copacabana in central Harare and Highfield, plus the Wilkins Rehabilitation Centre, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, who leads the committee dealing with drug abuse, said these developments were part of the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030).
The plan was initiated by President Mnangagwa in June last year to combat addiction.
In her speech, delivered by Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe, Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri, who chairs the National Drug and Substance Abuse Committee, said the decentralisation of the CID Drugs and Narcotics Unit across the country, had effectively disrupted supply chains for illegal drugs.
“We applaud the supply reduction pillar for sterling performance in disrupting the supply networks,” she said with more than 32 030 offenders brought to justice.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri praised First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa for her contributions, citing the Angel of Hope Rehabilitation Centre as a beacon of hope for victims throughout the country.
“These centres will play a crucial role in providing the care, treatment and rehabilitation that so many urgently need,” she said, acknowledging the collaborations with churches and organisations repurposing their facilities for treatment.
The new Copacabana Centre will focus on urban screening and early interventions, the Wilkins Centre will provide structured rehabilitation and the Highfield Centre will enhance community-based access and prevention efforts.
Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care Sleiman Kwidini underscored the importance of collaboration, highlighting contributions from the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society and other stakeholders.
“Drug and substance abuse is not just a health issue; it is a shared national responsibility,” he asserted.
ZRCS secretary-general Mr Elias Hwenga echoed sentiments of hope and dedication moving forward, emphasising the collective effort required to combat this pressing issue.
