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Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
DRUG and substance abuse have a negative bearing on the country’s trajectory towards attaining Vision 2030, with Government having moved a gear-up to arrest the scourge, Youth, Arts, Sport and Recreation deputy Minister Tinomuda Machakaire has said.
In a speech read on his behalf by Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, at the Norton Drug and Substance Abuse Awareness Campaign held at Pakare Paye Arts Centre yesterday, deputy Minister Machakaire said:
“An upsurge in violence and high crime rate continues to hold back socio-economic development as it mostly affects the 16 to 44 age group, which is most productive age group.
Research indicates that approximately 3 percent of the adult population have either had a drug or alcohol use disorder.”
Deputy Minister Machakaire said Government has set up an anti-drug and substance abuse inter-ministerial committee to underscore its commitment in fighting drug abuse.
Zimbabwe Junior President, Unathi Nyoni applauded President Mnangagwa for coming up with various policies that are child and youth friendly.
He encouraged his counterparts to shun drugs and help build the nation towards the goal of attaining an upper-middle income society by 2030.
The event which was organised by local Member of Parliament, Mr Temba Mliswa attracted representatives from across the political divide.
Several artists including dancing musician, Seh Calaz and Norton-born Celcius entertained the crowd, while spreading messages to denounce drug and substance abuse.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter