Staff Reporter
Government is set to launch the Government Analyst Laboratory and Substance Abuse Testing Programme on February 13, 2025. The event will be presided over by the Minister of Health and Child Care, Hon. Dr. Douglas Mombeshora.
In a statement the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Dr Aspect Maunganidze, stated the roles of the GovernmentAnalyst Laboratory (GAL).
“Operating under the Ministry of Health and Child Care is tasked with analysing samples for medico-legal purposes, supporting Government initiatives, and coordinating the national food control program.
It also provides technical advice on food quality, water treatment, industrial processing, and environmental pollution. Notably, GAL serves as the National Codex Contact Point and acts as the secretariat to the Food Standards Advisory Board,” he noted.
Dr Maunganidze also said that the launch of the Substance Abuse Testing Programme comes in response to a significant rise in drug and substance abuse cases across the nation.
“Recent studies have highlighted emerging trends, including the misuse of prescription medications and the consumption of homemade intoxicants. These developments have raised concerns among health professionals and policymakers,” he said
Dr. Alex Gasasira, the World Health Organisation’s Representative for Zimbabwe, emphasised the importance of a comprehensive approach to this issue.
“The problem of substance abuse is increasing and requires broad stakeholder participation for prevention and treatment. There is need to implore key prevention strategies which include public awareness campaigns and the provision of expertise and facilities to support individuals seeking to quit substance use,” Dr Gasasira said.
Meanwhile, the establishment of the Substance Abuse Testing Programme is anticipated to offer several benefits, facilitate accurate identification of various substances in biological samples, aid in the timely diagnosis and treatment of substance abuse disorders.
This initiative aligns with the Zimbabwe Multisectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan 2024-2030, approved by the Cabinet in April 2024. The plan offers strategic direction to the nation’s response to the drug and substance abuse challenge, ensuring comprehensive support for communities, families, and individuals as the country progresses towards Vision 2030.
