Drug and substance abuse affecting attainment of Sustainable Development Goals

As Zimbabwe grapples with rising cases of drug use, particularly among young people, stories like those of Kudzi and Tinotenda offer both caution and hope.

Fungai Lupande Mashonaland Central Bureau

Drug and substance abuse has been identified as the emerging issue that is affecting the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Mashonaland Central.

Other issues identified as impediments to achieving SDG goals include climate change, illegal mining activities, informal settlements, poor service delivery by local authorities, and poor irrigation infrastructure.

Zimbabwe adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 SDGs.

The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare and various stakeholders met in Bindura to validate the 2024 Voluntary National Review (VNR) of the SDGs.

It was noted that Mashonaland Central is doing well on SDG 11 which looks at the establishment of smart cities, with Kanyemba being a great model.

However, it also emerged that the province is not building upwards to save land.

On SGD 3 which looks at the health sector, the province has increased its anti-natal coverage.

There has also been a significant increase in shelters for waiting mothers, village health workers, as well as anti-malaria and TB campaigns.

In terms of food security, the province is implementing the Pfumvuza/Intwasa program, the Schools Feeding Programme, the Presidential Borehole Drilling Programme and the construction of four major dams.

On access to education, several new schools have been constructed in Mashonaland Central Province.

The review of the curriculum is also aiding in promoting achievements in the education sector.