Government Intensifies Drug and Substance Abuse Fight as Response Programme Records Progress

The Government says Zimbabwe’s fight against drug and substance abuse is yielding notable results, with significant progress being recorded under the Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030) as authorities scale up enforcement, prevention and rehabilitation efforts nationwide.

Delivering an update on the national response, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, who chairs the Zimbabwe National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, said coordinated interventions by Government agencies are beginning to produce measurable outcomes in addressing the growing threat posed by illicit drugs and substance misuse.

Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said intensified law enforcement operations have seen 2 889 accused persons brought before the courts, with 381 convictions secured, reflecting Government’s determination to clamp down on drug-related crimes and restore public safety.

She said targeted crackdowns in Manicaland and Mashonaland West provinces resulted in the arrest of 453 drug suppliers, the identification of 2 436 drug users, and the dismantling of 31 drug bases, dealing a significant blow to illicit drug networks operating in affected communities.

Authorities also confiscated drugs and illicit substances worth approximately ZiG 79.9 million, including crystal meth, cocaine, ecstasy tablets, dagga and khat, as well as unregistered medicines such as cough syrups that are often abused, particularly by young people.

Beyond arrests and seizures, Government has intensified regulatory oversight of alcohol and substance distribution channels. Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said 615 liquor-licensed premises were inspected countrywide, leading to 36 unlicensed outlets being fined and shut down for operating illegally.

In a parallel social protection intervention, Government removed 32 children living and working on the streets, placing them under care and protection as part of efforts to shield vulnerable groups from exploitation and substance abuse.

The progress reflects Government’s multi-sectoral approach to combating drug and substance abuse through stronger law enforcement, tighter regulation, rehabilitation programmes and social welfare interventions amid rising concern over the devastating impact of narcotics on families, communities and the nation’s youth.

By Witness A Phiri