adminSydney Mubaiwa in Zaka
Two non-governmental organisations (NGOs) here have embarked on a campaign to reduce cases of drug abuse among youths here.
The Free from Addictions Trust, together with the Bullion Group of Companies, are concerned that drug abuse among youths was impacting negatively on socio-economic development.
Addressing residents during a drug awareness campaign at Jerera Growth Point on Tuesday, Free from Addictions Trust executive director Mrs Hendrina Chitsama said the eradication of substance abuse was a critical element in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children and the Sustainable Developments Goals.
She said it was imperative that progressive organisations and the media worked together to achieve the goal.
“Substance abuse is real and even global players like the United Nations are in support of its eradication from our communities,” she said.
“Working with other like-minded organisations, corporates, sportsman, artists and the media, we are launching an awareness campaign dubbed ‘Stop Drug Abuse’ and we are targeting everyone including transport operators, school children and churches.”
Mrs Chitsama urged those affected to approach them for free screening.
She said their screening services detect 20 drugs or more at one go.
“Drug abuse is not only in alcohol but mbanje, cocaine, tablets, BronClear syrup, glue and even prescriptions have become dangerous to one’s health as some are given overdoses or wrong medicines,” she said.
Mrs Chitsama, who is a nurse and development worker, said they were happy with the support they were receiving from the Government.
She said Government had offered them an open-air venue in Milton Park, Harare, for the programme.
Zaka District youth officer Mr Mike Mhike urged residents to play a leading role in fighting substance abuse, saying drugs are a threat to the society and nation building.
“The campaign seeks to address the drug abuse problem in our communities and to engage residents to report the suspected cases as the alleged drug peddlers are also part of our community and to rid our society of such criminals,” he said.
Online Reporter