Victoria Falls PVO Opens Halfway House for Drug Abuse Victims

Arise and Shine for Community Development, a registered Private Voluntary Organisation (PVO) in Victoria Falls, has officially commissioned a halfway house to assist victims of drug and substance abuse. The facility, aimed at offering rehabilitation and counselling, was launched at Safari Lodge in the resort city and is already accommodating individuals in need.

The event was attended by various community leaders and government representatives, all of whom echoed the importance of collective action in addressing the growing challenge of drug abuse, especially among the youth.

Guest of Honour Dr Clement Mukwasi applauded the initiative, stating that the shelter would play a vital role in helping victims recover and reintegrate into society. “The rehabilitation shelter is there to help drug abuse victims and ensure a community free of drugs,” he said. He added that everyone must be involved, noting, “The community needs to be conscientious on the need to desist from abusing drugs.”

She explained that Arise and Shine not only rehabilitates drug abuse victims but also supports individuals affected by domestic violence and other social issues. The organisation, she added, is committed to creating lasting change in the community by providing safe spaces for healing and recovery.

The launch of the halfway house has been hailed as a significant step in addressing substance abuse in Victoria Falls, with hopes that more partners will come on board to strengthen the initiative.

Mr Mvhiringi, a lawyer and patron of the organisation, stressed the need for stakeholder support. He described the halfway house as a vital community development project and called on residents and organisations to take ownership of the centre. “It is the duty of all people to be on the lookout for drug abuse by youths and help them see the negative impact of this,” he said.

Representing the Department of Women Affairs in Hwange District, Mr Six urged the organisation not to relent in its efforts. “I urge Arise and Shine never to look back and continue with their impressive philanthropic work,” he said. He further encouraged the expansion of such projects, stating that the current facility is only the beginning.

Reverend Chichoni, the CEO of Arise and Shine, confirmed that the centre is operational and currently houses victims aged between 15 and 35 years. “The victims who are drawn from the city and the outlying rural areas are given counselling and taken through therapy until they improve before they are reintegrated into the community,” she said. She also appealed for support from well-wishers, particularly in the form of food and further development of the shelter.