By Loyd Matare
Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi says, as the country battles a scourge of drug and substance abuse, nearly 60% of cases involve young people—the nation’s future.
This comes amid rising concerns over synthetic drugs, including crystal methamphetamine, locally known as mutoriro, and the abuse of prescription medicines.
Speaking at the Drug and Substance Abuse Courts training programme in Harare today, Ziyambi described the crisis as a direct threat to national development, public health, and social stability.
“Zimbabwe is experiencing an alarming upsurge in drug and substance abuse, particularly among our youth.
“The turn towards novel and synthetic substances, abuse of pharmaceutical products, and the ready availability of intoxicants has created distressing patterns.
“Recent studies have reported that approximately sixty percent of admissions to our mental health institutions are related to substance use disorders. This is a startling statistic that should jolt us all into action,” he said.
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He also said the government is fighting drug and substance abuse through the Zimbabwe Multisectoral Plan (2024–2030), a coordinated effort uniting the Judiciary, National Prosecuting Authority, law enforcement, health services, and community stakeholders.
“The establishment of specialised Drug and Substance Abuse Courts will focus resources on drug-related offences, ensuring swift justice while balancing accountability with rehabilitation for first-time offenders,” he added.
Prosecutor General Loyce Matanda-Moyo, speaking through Deputy Prosecutor General Nelson Mutsonziwa, echoed the concerns, emphasizing the human toll of the crisis.
“We are witnessing a sharp rise in drug and substance abuse, particularly among our youth—the most productive and energetic segment of our society.
“Families are destroyed, young people’s aspirations are lost, and rehabilitation centers across the country are full of addicts,” Mutsonziwa said.
He stressed the need for a united approach:
“The fight against drugs requires law enforcement, judiciary, prosecutors, correctional services, health professionals, and community leaders working together. We must create a justice system that is both a deterrent and a safety net.”
“With this training, we aim to restore public trust in the justice system while protecting communities from the devastating effects of drug abuse. The future of our young people depends on us,” Mutsonziwa said.
