Online Reporter
Online Reporter
ZANU PF youth leaders in Chitungwiza have welcomed a council directive ordering the removal of illegal snooker tables from undesignated areas, saying the move will help curb drug and substance abuse among young people.
Chitungwiza Municipality this week issued a public notice raising concern over the proliferation of illegal pool tables at overnight parking sites, tuckshops, shebeens and public transport termini.
The local authority warned that some of these sites have become centres for drug dealing and substance abuse, particularly among youths, posing a threat to public safety and community well-being.
“In the interest of protecting communities and promoting a safe and orderly environment, Chitungwiza Municipality hereby directs all operators of pool tables located at unauthorised sites to remove them, together with any related illegal structures, within seven working days from the date of this notice,” reads part of the statement.
Responding to the development, ZANU PF youth chairperson for Chaminuka 2A Zone 1 in St Mary’s, Cde Lovejoy Chogugudza, described the directive as a timely intervention to safeguard young people.
“We have been working with authorities here in the fight against drug abuse and I would like to applaud council for this move because we have seen that these pool tables have become drug hubs,” he said.
Cde Chogugudza also commended President Mnangagwa for spearheading the national campaign against drug and substance abuse.
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“The good thing is that we have leadership in this country which has been championing the fight against drug abuse. President Mnangagwa has demonstrated strong leadership in addressing the scourge,” he said.
He said young people fully support Government efforts to combat drug abuse, which he noted is destroying lives, families and communities.
He warned that drug abuse is increasingly affecting young people in Chitungwiza, leading to lost educational and employment opportunities, as well as fuelling crime and violence.
“Many young people have seen their dreams shattered because of drugs. Substance abuse is fuelling criminal activities, violence and social instability. We must all work together to protect our youths and create a better future for them,” he said.
Cde Chogugudza further welcomed plans to establish rehabilitation centres at Utano and Tatenda Tavern, saying the facilities will provide critical support for those battling addiction.
“Rehabilitation is a critical component of the fight against drugs. Those affected need professional assistance and a chance to rebuild their lives. The proposed centres will play an important role in helping affected youths recover and reintegrate into society,” he said.
Cde Chogugudza also expressed support for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, saying it would enable Government to complete major national development projects.
“There are a lot of good things that President Mnangagwa is doing to develop this country. As youths, we are happy he has declared drug abuse a national disaster and we would like him to continue so that he finishes all the projects,” he said.
