Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Mat South Bureau Chief
THE Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, has called for all districts in the province to play ball in mobilising resources towards the fight against drug and substance abuse.
Minister Nguluvhe made the call in a speech read on his behalf by deputy director Business Development Mr Tichaona Mudzviti, on Wednesday, during a ceremony to mark the launch of the Gwanda drug and substance abuse resource mobilisation programme.
He said a lot of work has to be done in the province and each district has to play its role.
“This launch is a response to His Excellency, President Mnangagwa’s clarion call on all citizens and institutions to intensify the fight against drug and substance abuse. As Matabeleland South, it is prudent that we do our part to participate and support this plan in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
“In order for us as a province to succeed it means that each district has a significant role to play in contributing resources, raising awareness and disregarding the use of drugs and other substances,” he said.
Minister Nguluvhe called on various stakeholders including Government, corporates, churches, community leaders, media, youth and residents to continue preaching and disseminating information on the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
He said the province is faced with a myriad of challenges that require material and financial support in addition to the work that has already been done.
The province does not have a stand-alone functional rehabilitation centre and relies on Ingutsheni Central Hospital in Bulawayo as a referral rehabilitation centre.
The province identified the old tuberculosis clinic in Jahunda, Gwanda for rehabilitation so that it becomes the provincial referral centre for victims of drug and substance abuse.
Other activities that will be carried out using the funds collected from the seven districts include awareness campaigns, patrols, community empowerment projects, establishment of recreational facilities and sporting activities, among others.
“The identified centre needs renovations. The supply reduction pillar needs to be capacitated with resources in order to make more arrests. The province has no equipment to conduct instant preliminary drug tests and scanners, especially at our border posts.
“Fuel for mobility in conducting drug and substance abuse raids and patrols by the police is also not available. These are some of the gaps that need financial resources in order for the province to make a significant impact in the fight against drug and substance abuse,” he said.
Matabeleland South Province is expected to raise US$280 000 towards the drug abuse fight with Gwanda District expected to raise US$36 000.
The Government has set up a National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse guided by seven pillars that focus on supply, demand, harm reduction, treatment, rehabilitation, legal frameworks, community reintegration and media strategies to ensure a holistic fight against the scourge.
—@DubeMatutu
