Calls for mandatory and stiffer sentences for drug peddlers

THERE have been calls for mandatory and stiffer sentences for drug peddlers as part of efforts to rid the country of the drug and substance abuse menace.

Presenting a paper on communication and media pillar activities in the fight against drug and substance abuse at the ongoing Bulawayo Provincial Drug and Substance Abuse Taskforce workshop, Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services provincial information officer Mr Gration Mahachi said tougher sentences would send a strong message to those involved in the distribution of illicit drugs.

He said the penalties would also act as a deterrent to people who may be contemplating venturing into drug peddling.

“We are calling for mandatory and stiffer sentences for drug peddlers just like we have for stock theft and rape cases,” said Mr Mahachi.

Mr Mahachi said the media had a crucial role to play in the fight against drug and substance abuse by disseminating anti-drug messages from Government and other stakeholders.

He said communication efforts should focus on reducing demand for drugs and substances by increasing knowledge of their harmful effects, changing attitudes and promoting protective behaviours.

The communication strategy also seeks to improve referrals to support services, with a particular focus on encouraging young people to reject drugs, helping families respond to substance abuse at an early stage and mobilising communities to support recovery.

Mr Mahachi said the media should also help sustain the national conversation around the Drug and Substance Abuse Plan while increasing awareness among young people, parents and communities about the harms and consequences of drug abuse.

He said there was also a need to strengthen protective behaviours through schools, sports, faith-based organisations and healthy peer networks.

“Communication should improve early reporting and referrals to counselling, treatment and rehabilitation services, while mobilising communities to discourage drug dealing and the normalisation of drug use,” he said.

He said a coordinated communication approach involving the media, Government departments, communities and other stakeholders was critical in ensuring that anti-drug messages reached the intended audiences and translated into action.