SAMANTHA MADE

Government has intensified its fight against drug and substance abuse through extensive awareness campaigns, youth engagement, and law enforcement crackdowns.

Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing this week, Minister of Information and Publicity Jenfan Muswere outlined the government’s latest efforts to combat the crisis.

He emphasized that drug and substance abuse is not only a national issue but a global concern requiring urgent intervention.

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has incorporated drug and substance abuse awareness into the school curriculum, reaching 7,274,939 learners nationwide.

“(About) 62 656 students were engaged in prevention programmes through the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development”,Muswere said.

The Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development has also played a role, reaching 111,537 people through targeted awareness programs. Additionally, the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, and Arts engaged 11,836 participants in cultural and sports activities designed to promote healthy lifestyles and deter substance abuse.

Religious organizations have also joined the fight, educating 16,759 congregants through sermons and awareness initiatives.

Beyond awareness efforts, authorities have intensified their crackdown on drug-related offenses.

Between September 1, 2024, and January 31, 2025, police destroyed 79 illegal drug dens and arrested 9,527 offenders. Of those arrested, 616 were suppliers while 8,911 were end users.

“Collaboration with international law enforcement agencies has also yielded results, leading to the arrest of three individuals found in possession of 23 kilograms of dagga in Zambia,” Muswere revealed.

The government has also taken steps to regulate the distribution of pharmaceuticals and prevent the illegal sale of controlled substances.

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe conducted 117 inspections, resulting in the closure of five non-compliant premises.

As Zimbabwe steps up its fight against drug and substance abuse, authorities continue to emphasize a multi-faceted approach combining education, prevention, and enforcement to curb the scourge that has gripped communities nationwide.