Staff Reporter
Drug and substance abuse has emerged as a national crisis in Zimbabwe, posing a significant threat to the country's development goals, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister, Kazembe Kazembe has warned.
Speaking during the official opening of a Training of Trainers workshop for the National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse yesterday, Minister Kazembe emphasised the urgent need for a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to tackle the scourge.
“This gathering represents a critical moment in our collective efforts to address one of the most pressing challenges facing our country—the devastating impact of drug and substance abuse on our people, our communities, and our future,” said Minister Kazembe.
The three-day workshop, organised by the Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare, brought together Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, provincial heads of ministries, traditional leaders, religious leaders, and civil society representatives.
Minister Kazembe, who also serves as Deputy Chairperson of the National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, stressed that drug abuse jeopardises President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 of transforming Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.
“This is not just a policy issue, but a matter that strikes at the heart of our nation’s social fabric and the very vision our President has for a prosperous society. We cannot allow drug and substance abuse to derail the progress and development we are making as a country,” Kazembe stated.
He urged all Zimbabweans to play an active role in tackling the crisis, highlighting the workshop’s mandate to develop actionable strategies that “leave no one behind and no stone unturned.”
Minister Kazembe underscored the importance of unity among stakeholders, particularly religious leaders, traditional authorities, and policymakers.
“Community leaders play critical roles in shaping the future of our nation. You are the gatekeepers to ensure sanity prevails. Your leadership in guiding our communities toward a drug-free future cannot be overstated,” he said.
Kazembe called on provincial leaders and policymakers to strengthen the legislative frameworks that support the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of affected individuals.
He also urged religious leaders to provide moral guidance and influence societal behaviour to combat the epidemic.
The workshop aligns with the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030), which outlines key strategies across various pillars to combat drug abuse.
Under the Supply Reduction Pillar, law enforcement agencies, border security, and the judiciary are tasked with disrupting the flow of illicit substances into the country.
Kazembe concluded by emphasising that the fight against drug and substance abuse requires a “whole-of-society” approach, with every sector playing a specialised role.
“Our collective efforts will determine whether we build the nation ‘brick by brick’ and safeguard our future. The fight against drug abuse begins with unity and decisive action,” he said.
The workshop continues today, with discussions focusing on sustainable solutions and interventions to address Zimbabwe’s growing drug crisis.
