Zimbabwe cracks down on drug abuse with multi-pronged attack

THE Government is taking a firm stance against the growing issue of drug addiction by implementing a multi-faceted strategy that includes both law enforcement measures and community education programmes.

Law enforcement agencies have been vigilant in their efforts, resulting in the arrest of over 2 300 individuals and the shutting down of 48 drug dens across the country.

However, the Government also recognises the importance of addressing the root causes of addiction and is actively engaged in targeted sensitisation programmes aimed at educating vulnerable populations about the dangers of drug use.

This nationwide effort involves every province in the country and is comprehensive in its approach, taking into account the societal issues that contribute to addiction.

The fight against drugs is a national priority, and efforts are being made to curb both the availability of drugs and the underlying causes of drug abuse. The Government has also enlisted the support of religious organisations in the fight against drug addiction, with campaigns aimed at encouraging the youth to lead drug-free lives.

Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, underlined the national unity in this battle, saying every corner of the country is engaged, demonstrating a strong commitment to curbing drug abuse in Zimbabwe.

“Monitoring, surveillance, and law enforcement activities continue, resulting in the arrest of 2 373 individuals and the identification, raid and destruction of 48 drug bases across six provinces: Harare (10), Manicaland (25), Mashonaland Central (6), Matabeleland North (3), Mashonaland West (2) and Midlands (2),” he said.

“Joint operations involving the Liquor Licensing Board and Zimbabwe Republic Police were conducted, resulting in the inspection of 724 liquor premises. Out of these, 124 outlet owners were arrested for licence condition violations. Cabinet also approved increasing the fine from US$30 (Level 5) to US$400 (Level 7) or imprisonment for up to 2 years.”

He said that youth are undergoing sensitisation initiatives, while efforts within the education sector include providing counselling and guidance for rehabilitation and prevention of drug abuse.

“A total of 25 792 youths were sensitised on anti-drug and substance abuse matters in Masvingo, Mashonaland Central, Matabeleland North and Manicaland provinces. Additionally, within the education sector, 569 969 learners underwent sensitisation through special assemblies, Victim Friendly Unit collaborations, guidance and counselling sessions, sporting activities and peer education. Crystal Meth has been designated as a dangerous drug,” he said.

Dr Muswere stressed that the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development is actively supporting the fight against drug abuse through campaigns and the implementation of empowerment projects.

“The Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development sensitised 14 951 individuals across all provinces through diverse platforms, including campaigns against social ills such as gender-based violence (GBV), child marriages, HIV/Aids, internal savings and lending, financial literacy, as well as ward and gender sensitisation meetings in collaboration with sister ministries and development partners.

“Additionally, a total of 16 529 individuals were empowered through various income-generating projects like poultry farming, detergent-making, beverage production, packaging, branding and perfume-making.”
The Empower Bank facilitated the empowerment of youths nationwide by furnishing them with starter packs.

“A total of 101 youths were trained under the revitalised Youth Service in Zimbabwe Programme, inaugurated by His Excellency the President, Dr ED Mnangagwa, at Nhakiwa, in the Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe on May 24, 2024. Additionally, in a bid to reignite the spirit of volunteerism, responsibility and ownership among youths, the Youth Build Zimbabwe initiative engaged 1 900 volunteer youths in diverse community development projects across Masvingo, Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central provinces,” he said.

Dr Muswere also hailed the support of religious organisations in the fight against drug addiction, with campaigns aimed at encouraging the youth to lead drug-free lives.