Deputy Minister calls for collective action to combat drug abuse

DRUGS are wreaking havoc on families and communities thereby eroding the very fabric of society, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Cde Raj Modi said.

Speaking at the anti-drugs, gender-based violence and HIV/Aids awareness campaign at Thabiso Youth Centre in Makokoba suburb on Friday, Cde Modi said drug abuse has devastating impact on individuals, families and society.

Cde Modi, who is also the MP for Bulawayo South Constituency, said drug abuse has resulted in broken families, increased crime rates and has adverse impact on the economy.

The awareness campaign, organised by the Makokoba-Mzilikazi Local Peace Committee (LPC), ran under the theme “Unlocking Talent to Curb Drug and Substance Use.”

Cde Modi said drugs now pose a threat to the future and mental well-being of youths hence the urgent need to address the problem.

“The scourge of drug abuse continues to plague our neighbourhoods and threatens the well-being of our youth. Drugs are not only destroying lives but are tearing families apart and eroding the very foundation of our society. Recent statistics by Plan International indicate that 43 percent of youths in Harare and Bulawayo have accessed and used different types of drugs.

“According to media reports, 60 percent of patients admitted to mental health institutions suffer from drug disorders. It is therefore important that we come together to educate our children about the dangers of substance abuse as well as provide support and rehabilitation for those who have fallen victim,” he said.

Cde Modi applauded the members of the Makokoba-Mzilikazi LPC for their efforts to fight drug abuse.

“This campaign comes at a time when the President of Zimbabwe, His Excellency Cde E.D. Mnangagwa, has launched the Multi-Sectorial Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030) to combat this scourge. The initiative by the Makokoba-Mzilikazi LPC complements Government efforts to fight drug abuse,” he said.

On the issue of gender-based violence, Hon Modi called for all perpetrators to be punished as part of the efforts to foster violence-free communities.

“The Covid-19 pandemic forced families to stay together with limited resources and during that period we saw a rise in gender-based violence cases in Bulawayo and across the country. We must confront this scourge and work towards eradicating it. No one, regardless of gender, should ever have to live in fear of violence or abuse. Perpetrators must be held accountable and we must foster a culture of respect, equality and understanding in our homes and communities. The church also plays a crucial role in providing safe spaces and support for victims and survivors of gender-based violence,” said Cde Modi.

Speaking on the ongoing fight against HIV and Aids, Cde Modi urged people that test positive to adhere to treatment.

He said that the fight against HIV/Aids remains a top national priority, urging the public to unite in spreading awareness, promoting testing and ensuring access to treatment.

“Through education, awareness and collective action, we can build a brighter future for Bulawayo — a future where every individual can live with dignity, free from the shadows of drug abuse, gender-based violence, and HIV/Aids.”

The campaign attracted many youths who participated in different sporting events and were also entertained by groups such as Khaya Arts.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police’s Narcotics Department, the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and the National Aids Council also participated in the campaign.