Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu,[email protected]
Matabeleland South Province is today launching its drug and substance resource mobilisation initiative, which will see the province fundraise towards combating the drug and substance abuse scourge.
Among the officials present are Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Albert Nguluvhe, Provincial Secretary Mrs Lathiso Dlamini-Maseko, Chief Masuku, and Gwanda Mayor Alderman Thulani Moyo, among others.
Also in attendance are traditional leaders, members of the business community, civil servants, youth, faith leaders and residents.
The province is expected to raise US$280 000 towards the fight against drug abuse. The money will be used for initiatives such as the establishment of rehabilitation centres, recreational facilities, awareness campaigns, among others.
Provinces have also been tasked with coming up with strategies, including raising funds towards the fight against drug and substance abuse, in a bid to tackle the growing scourge that has devastated communities across the country. This follows the national call to action by President Mnangagwa, who on 11 July 2025 launched the National Drug and Substance Response Resource Mobilisation Programme in Harare.
Drug and substance abuse remains one of the most urgent and escalating public health challenges facing Zimbabwe, and Matabeleland South Province in particular. As a result, the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral National Action Plan on Drug and Substance Abuse (2024-2030) was developed as a response framework to address this complex issue through a coordinated, holistic and inclusive approach that embraces prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, policy reform and sustained community engagement.
Government has set up a National Committee on Drugs and Substances guided by seven pillars. The pillars focus on supply, demand, harm reduction, treatment, rehabilitation, legal frameworks, community reintegration and media strategies to ensure a holistic fight against the scourge.
Government has already allocated ZWG$865 million to support the programme, with individuals, corporations and development partners being urged to play a critical role through donations and partnerships.
In 2021, Government adopted the National Drug Master Plan, which outlines a framework that includes a reduction in supply and demand, promotion of harm reduction treatment, rehabilitation and community reintegration. Despite these efforts, substance use among young people in Zimbabwe continues to rise alarmingly, pointing to the need for more than just a framework, but an action plan with comprehensive, responsive strategies.
In response to the escalating crisis, President Mnangagwa launched the Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030). The plan aims to strengthen enforcement of anti-drug laws and disrupt drug supply chains, while also providing prevention, treatment and rehabilitation services.
