Minister urges communities to unite against drug abuse

MATABELELAND South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Albert Nguluvhe has called on communities in Beitbridge to unite in the fight against drug and substance abuse, describing the scourge as a growing national crisis that threatens social stability and public health.

Minister Nguluvhe made the call yesterday while addressing mourners at the burial of liberation war heroine, Cde Lumbedzani Ribombo (65), at Makakavhule Cemetery on the outskirts of the border town.

He commended Cde Ribombo for her tireless service to the community, particularly her work as a member of the local crime liaison committee, where she played a key role in combating crime and substance abuse in Beitbridge.

The minister noted that drug and substance abuse remains one of the most urgent and escalating challenges facing communities across the country.

Cde Ribombo, who died on Wednesday after a short illness, was also a cultural icon who featured in several Tshivenda dramas and was widely respected as a custodian of Venda culture.

She is survived by five children and several grandchildren.

At the time of her death, Cde Ribombo was the Zanu-PF Beitbridge District Co-ordinating Committee secretary for business and liaison.

“As Government, we are deeply saddened by the loss of this illustrious daughter of the soil. We share the pain of the Ribombo family, the war veterans fraternity and the ruling Zanu-PF in losing a cadre who dedicated her life to fighting the oppressive regime and later crime and social ills in our community,” said Minister Nguluvhe.

“Cde Ribombo’s dedication to Beitbridge is a shining example of what can be achieved when communities work together. It is therefore important that we unite to confront drug and substance abuse, which is destroying lives and communities, particularly here in Beitbridge,” he said.

Minister Nguluvhe urged citizens to uphold the national values espoused by President Mnangagwa, saying every Zimbabwean has a role to play in national development.

He said the fight against drug and substance abuse requires a collaborative approach, noting that the province has already established a provincial committee on drug and substance abuse, which has been cascaded to district level.

“This committee is guided by a clear direction to adopt a Whole-of-Government and society approach in dealing with this challenge. This gathering itself is relevant in highlighting the devastating effects of this scourge,” said the minister.

Minister Nguluvhe added that the province continues to intensify efforts to curb drug and substance abuse.

“Through surveillance activities carried out by stakeholders working with provincial and district committees, drug peddlers and dealers have been apprehended and prosecuted. However, sustained collaboration is critical if we are to consolidate these gains,” he said.

He also paid tribute to Cde Ribombo’s passion for preserving Venda culture and her wisdom on social issues, describing her as a “fountain of knowledge” who was always willing to share her skills, listen to others and mentor the younger generation.

“She was a proud daughter of Beitbridge whose legacy will continue to inspire many,” said Minister Nguluvhe.