Staff Reporter
Government’s fight against drug and substance abuse received a major boost today as the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) took delivery of state-of-the-art drug testing equipment from the Abused Substances and Diagnostics Management (ASDM) Project.
While officiating at the ceremony, Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Sleiman Timios Kwidini, hailed the donation as a significant step in strengthening Zimbabwe’s response to substance abuse.
“It is a privilege to stand before you today to receive this invaluable donation of drug testing equipment from the ASDM Project. On behalf of the Ministry of Health and Child Care and the people of Zimbabwe, I extend our heartfelt thanks to our generous donors for this critical support,” Kwidini stated.
Kwidini also emphasized that the equipment would be deployed efficiently, with a focus on transparency, accountability, and effectiveness.
“The Ministry of Health pledges to ensure that this equipment is utilized to its fullest potential. Together, we will continue to strengthen our national response to substance abuse, building a healthier, drug-free future for all Zimbabweans,” he said.
He announced that the testing program would commence with targeted sector testing before expanding to other sectors.
He further revealed the Ministry’s efforts to reduce road carnage by introducing drug testing in the transport sector.
“Testing will initially be offered free of charge for a limited period, after which a nominal fee will be required to cover expenses. The testing will be available to public transport drivers, public service drivers, government school drivers, and haulage truck drivers, among others,” Kwidini said
The Deputy Minister stressed that substance abuse was a growing crisis affecting all age groups.
“This issue has particularly devastating consequences for our youth, but now it cuts across all age groups who are productive and the future of this nation. We cannot afford to ignore this crisis, nor can we face it alone. This donation will significantly strengthen our ongoing efforts to detect and monitor drug use, which is essential for both prevention and treatment,” he said
Kwidini noted that the equipment would provide vital data to support national policy efforts led by President Mnangagwa and the National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse.
“With this advanced technology, the Government Analyst Laboratory will be better equipped to detect and combat substance abuse, helping to protect our young people and other vulnerable groups from the devastating effects of drug addiction,” he added
Meanwhile, Health Analyst, Dr. Silas Mhesve, welcomes the development saying that the new equipment would enhance forensic drug testing.
“This will allow us to provide timely and accurate results, which are critical in law enforcement and public health interventions,” he said.
The ASDM Project, which has been a key partner in Zimbabwe’s fight against substance abuse, pledged continued support for strengthening the country’s response to the crisis.
