By Loyd Matare
Authorities have called on communities to actively join the fight against drug and substance abuse, emphasizing awareness, rehabilitation, and stricter law enforcement.
The call came during an awareness campaign held yesterday in Kuwadzana 6, where leaders from government and the City of Harare stressed collective action as the most effective way to protect youths.
This comes as drug and substance abuse continue to be a menace in densely populated suburbs such as Mbare, Kuwadzana, and Highfield, with youths trapped in cycles of addiction that drive crime and social decay.
In a speech read on his behalf, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Charles Tawengwa said the campaign comes at a critical time.
“Drug and substance abuse is not a distant problem. It is right here in our homes, on our streets, in our schools, and within neighbourhoods.
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“It threatens the very foundation of our families, the health of our communities, and the future of our nation,” he said.
He said the youth must be viewed as casualties rather than culprits.
“Our youth, who are meant to be the architects of our future, are instead becoming victims of this epidemic.
“Together, we say we will not allow this crisis to define our communities or our children,” he added.
Presiding as acting mayor, Ward 27 Councillor Womberaiishe Nhende said the City of Harare had taken the battle to where it is most needed.
“We allocated the Mbare Stodart area for the Angel of Hope Rehabilitation Centre because Mbare is a hotspot for drug and substance abuse.
“Through this programme, we are bringing awareness to the very doorsteps of our people so that together we can tackle the scourge,” he said.
Ward 4 Councillor Boniface Maburutse called for constant community engagement.
“These awareness campaigns should be held every month in every ward, because in places like Mbare the drug problem is becoming very serious.
“Learners must be properly educated so they can stay away from drugs, and they should be invited to attend these programmes so they can hear real testimonies,” he said.
He backed Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri’s recent stance on penalties.
“Anyone caught taking or selling drugs must be jailed, and those behind the supply chain given tough sentences to discourage others from engaging in this destructive habit.”
Vice Chairperson for Information and Publicity Committee and PR Councillor for Ward 44 Charlotte Mukarati, one of the initiators of the campaign, said the programme is already bearing fruit.
“We started this programme after realizing that many young people were getting drunk, sleeping on the streets, and becoming the main drivers of crime in our communities.
“The campaign is already showing positive results for instance, the First Lady has since opened a rehabilitation centre to support youths struggling to break free from drugs.”
Mukarati added that partnerships were key.
“Step by step, we are moving closer to our goal: building a community with drug-free youths.”
