Online Reporter
Walter Nyamukondiwa
Mashonaland West Bureau Chief
Community leaders and Government officials convened at Gadzema Grounds over the weekend to address the escalating challenge of drug and substance abuse, emphasising the need for a collaborative, multi-sectoral approach to combat this pressing issue.
The meeting brought together representatives from various sectors, including Government, law enforcement and religious organisations, all united in their efforts to tackle the drug epidemic affecting communities.
Mashonaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Marian Chombo, highlighted the urgent need for community involvement in combating drug-related issues.
In a speech read on her behalf by provincial secretary Mr Josphat Jaji, Minister Chombo said stakeholder collaboration was needed in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
“Drug and substance abuse must stop because we are losing a lot of our people including the young and productive age,” said Minister Chombo.
“Government has taken a bold stance against the vice with our police arresting those involved in the peddling and taking of the drugs. The public must play its part in informing the police so that more people are arrested to safeguard our children.”
She urged community members to break the silence and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure that action is taken against those involved in the drug trade.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi reinforced the message, highlighting that drug abuse is not only a public health issue, but a significant security concern, hence the establishment of a Ministerial Taskforce dedicated to tackling drug-related crimes.
