Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu
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GWANDA North Constituency has intensified its fight against drug and substance abuse, with community members implementing various measures aimed at curbing the growing social challenge.
Stakeholders on Saturday marched through Makwe Village in Gwanda North in a show of unity and commitment towards ending drug and substance abuse within communities.
The march was led by Zanu-PF Gwanda North shadow Member of Parliament, Cde Lungisani Ncube. He was accompanied by Zanu-PF Matabeleland South Women’s League chairlady, Cde Sindisiwe Nleya, Zanu-PF Gwanda District Coordinating Committee chairman, Cde David Linda, party members, community leaders and villagers.
Speaking during the march, Cde Ncube called on various stakeholders to actively participate in efforts to combat drug and substance abuse. He urged community members to pursue alternative income-generating activities that do not involve dealing in drugs.
“We can’t develop as a community if we have a lot of people who are taking drugs and other harmful substances.
What is alarming is that this scourge is affecting mostly youths who are the leaders of today and tomorrow.
“We are looking up to the youths for productivity, but they can’t deliver if they are always drunk. It’s also concerning that it’s mostly women who are involved in trafficking, distribution and supply of drugs. Let’s work collectively to bring this problem to an end,” he said.
Ward 8 councillor, Mr Zwelithini Nyathi, said drug and substance abuse remains a major threat to development.
He said community leadership had prioritised addressing the issue through awareness campaigns and community sensitisation programmes held during public gatherings.
Clr Nyathi said community leaders were working closely with law enforcement agents to ensure offenders are brought to book.
The anti-drug campaign follows a national call to action by President Mnangagwa, who on July 11, 2025, launched the National Drug and Substance Response Resource Mobilisation Programme in Harare.
Under the initiative, provinces were tasked with developing strategies to combat drug and substance abuse, including raising funds and conducting awareness campaigns to address the growing scourge affecting communities across the country.
In Gwanda North, stakeholders have also undertaken patrols, community empowerment projects and sporting activities as part of efforts to steer youths away from drugs and promote positive social behaviour.
@DubeMatutu
