Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu
GWANDA has had enough of drugs tearing through its streets and homes. Today the district launches a bold anti-drug and substance abuse resource mobilisation drive, rallying every household, business and civil servant to join the fight.
The initiative aims to raise US$36 000 for Gwanda’s war on drugs, feeding into the Matabeleland South provincial target of US$280 000. The funds will support awareness campaigns, patrols, youth empowerment projects and the renovation of the TB Centre in Gwanda Urban into a fully-fledged rehabilitation centre.
The launch has drawn heads of Government departments, civic society groups, community leaders and residents, all pledging to play their part.
Acting District Development Coordinator Thulani Moyo said the campaign is about ownership and unity.
“The district has a target of US$36 000 for the drug and substance abuse fight. We have seen it prudent to have contributions start from household level. We want the buy-in of everyone,” said Moyo.
He said the goal is to make sure no one is left out of the recovery journey.
“Community leaders, Government departments and other partners will help spread the message down to the grassroots. We will also use media platforms and awareness campaigns,” he added.
Moyo said while the fundraising has already started, the launch marks a major push to scale up the efforts. He called on all sectors to take the programme seriously.
“Every stakeholder must assume ownership if we are to succeed,” he said.
The district’s resource mobilisation model will see families, workers, and the business community each contributing something towards the cause.
President Mnangagwa set the tone when he launched the National Drug and Substance Response Resource Mobilisation Programme in Harare on 11 July 2025, calling for a united front.
Government has since established a National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, guided by seven pillars that focus on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, law enforcement and community reintegration.
Gwanda’s message is simple. The fight starts at home, every voice matters, and every dollar counts.
