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Talent Gore
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa yesterday launched the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse plan 2024-2030 – a comprehensive strategic plan to address the horror brought about by this monster.
The launch of the plan also coincided with the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which is observed to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse.
This year’s theme is “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”
President Mnangagwa said drug and substance abuse had become a significant public health threat to the country’s development.
“This scourge knows no bounds. It is affecting all socio-economic levels and across religious groupings, destroying lives and families.
“This public health concern is further undermining the social fabric of our beautiful nation, particularly the youth who are productive segments of our economy.
“The thrust of the Plan is to improve the health and security of Zimbabweans as enshrined in its ‘Vision of A Healthy and Secure Nation Free From Illicit Drugs and Substances.’
“As outlined, we are committed to support multi-stakeholder engagement and actions across the whole of Government and different sectors through targeted and collaborative interventions.”
He added that the development of the Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan was a result of collaborative effort.
“It is a true reminder of what we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal.
“My Government has since committed to establishing a National Drug Agency.
“The Agency will provide high level strategic leadership, coordinate implementation of the Drug and Substance Abuse Plan and promote multi-sectoral actions aligned with national priorities.
“Further, it will be tasked with ensuring alignment to regional and international frameworks within our country.”
President Mnangagwa said the country must strengthen the implementation of frameworks to disrupt and destroy supply chains of raw materials for the production of illicit brews and other drugs.
“Our content producers and social media influencers are challenged to be responsible with regards to the material and massaging they produce,” he said.
“Further, local authorities and real estate developers should ensure adherence to by-laws, regulations and land use plans regarding the provision of community recreational centres.”
“The country’s security agencies will remain on high alert and those found distributing drugs and illicit substances will face the full wrath of the law.”
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter