Online Reporter
Walter Nyamukondiwa
Mashonaland West Bureau Chief
STAKEHOLDERS in Mashonaland West Province have gathered to mobilise at least US$1 million towards prevention and rehabilitation campaigns against the growing scourge of drug and substance abuse.
The funds will be used to construct rehabilitation centres in the province’s seven districts while all the 14 local authorities are expected to set up the centres.
President Mnangagwa recently hosted a summit to mobilise resources for the national anti-drug and substance abuse response at State House in Harare.
Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora and Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Marian Chombo presided over the meeting in Chinhoyi yesterday.
Fundraising committees targeting the various industries and categories, including mining, agriculture and individuals with capacity have been set up.
Dr Mombeshora said everyone should be involved in the fight against the drug and substance menace.
“We want to build a rehabilitation centre in every district because it is not proper to have someone travel long distances to get services,” he said.
“A person cannot travel from Kariba to Chinhoyi for attention. Donations can come in cash and in kind towards this noble cause in the province and country at large.
“Everyone is welcome in this fight, including the churches. Bring whatever you can.”
Minister Chombo said drug and substance abuse is having a toll on the family, society and productivity.
“Drug and substance abuse is becoming a serious concern in Mashonaland West Province, threatening the health of our youths, destabilising families and weakening our communities,” she said.
“As we gather today (yesterday), we must acknowledge that this crisis is no longer distant. It’s affecting our schools, streets and homes.
“In areas like Chegutu, Kadoma and surrounding districts, they have witnessed a worrying rise in the use of illicit substances including crystal meth (mutoriro), BronCleer and marijuana.”
Minister Chombo said the development calls for urgent, unified action from everyone in the country.
