Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Matabeleland South Bureau
INFORMATION, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Deputy Minister Dr Omphile Marupi has called on parents, guardians and community members to play a more active role in protecting young people from the scourge of drug and substance abuse.
Speaking to residents of Sengezane recently, Dr Marupi who is also the Gwanda South Constituency legislator highlighted that the fight against the growing drug and substance abuse scourge must start at the household level.
“The alarming rate at which we are losing our children to drug and substance abuse demands urgent action. Our youths, who are the leaders of tomorrow, are being compromised.
“As parents and guardians, we must supervise and protect our children diligently,” he emphasised.
He urged families to act swiftly if they notice any signs of drug use among their children, stressing that early intervention can prevent further harm.
“If we take a stand against drug and substance abuse within our homes, the fight will be much easier to escalate to national level,” Dr Marupi added.
The Deputy Minister also appealed to community leaders to develop projects that provide constructive activities for young people, helping to keep them occupied and away from drugs.
He underscored the importance of education, expressing concern over some parents who do not see the value in sending their children to school.
“Sending children to school is crucial for their future productivity. It is worrying that some parents do not prioritise education.
“We must all invest whatever resources we have to ensure our children attend school,” he urged.
Dr Marupi called on local business owners to refrain from selling harmful substances to youths.
“Community-driven initiatives targeting youth engagement are vital. These projects help keep young people busy and reduce opportunities for drug use. As a community, we all share the responsibility of safeguarding our future generations,” he said.
He reminded residents of their collective duty: “If your neighbour’s child is using drugs, it’s as if your own child is at risk. We continue to lose lives and potential due to drug abuse and the future of our young people is being destroyed.”
According to statistics from the Matabeleland South Department of Social Welfare, five deaths related to drug and substance abuse were recorded between January and August 2025. During this period, 68 individuals received treatment and rehabilitation through the Ministry of Health and Child Care while law enforcement agencies arrested 1 556 individuals on drug-related charges comprising 1 269 males and 287 females with 48 convictions.
Common substances abused in the province include marijuana, crystal meth, Benylin cough syrup, Broncleer cough syrup, Astrapyne and unregistered medicines.
To address the crisis, the province is working to raise US$280 000 to fund initiatives such as rehabilitation centres, recreational facilities and awareness campaigns.
The old TB clinic in Jahunda, Gwanda, has been identified as a potential rehabilitation centre to serve as a provincial hub for drug and substance abuse recovery.
The local effort aligns with a national call to action led by President Mnangagwa, who launched the National Drug and Substance Response Resource Mobilisation Programme in Harare on 11 July 2025.
Provinces across Zimbabwe have been tasked with developing strategies and mobilising funds to combat this escalating epidemic that is devastating communities nationwide.
Bongani Ndlovu