The government of Zimbabwe has taken a strong stance against drug and substance abuse, with over 6,148 individuals arrested in the past four months for supplying and using drugs. The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, led by Hon Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri, presented a report to cabinet outlining the achievements and future strategies to combat this pressing issue.
According to Information Minister Jenfan Muswere, a total of 6,148 people were apprehended, including 677 suppliers and 5,471 end-users since January 2024. The government has also identified and raided 106 illegal drug trading bases in various cities, including Harare, Shamva, Chinhoyi, Bindura, Bulawayo, and Mutare.
In addition to the arrests, 51 liquor outlets were charged for operating without the correct licenses, and 268 operators were arrested for violating license conditions. Furthermore, 311 inspections on medicine outlets were conducted, resulting in the confiscation of 62 lines of medicines.
To address the root causes of drug abuse, the government is ramping up awareness campaigns targeting adults, youths, and children. The Empower Bank has provided US$20,000 in loans to youths across the country for income-generating projects to combat idleness and unemployment, which are contributing factors to drug abuse.
The cabinet has also approved the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan for 2024, which includes the expedited decentralization of the Drug and Narcotics Department, a new fine structure for drug abusers, and the establishment of outpatient Psycho-Social Support Centers and parenting groups nationwide. These measures aim to address the escalating threat of drug and substance abuse to public health, economic growth, national security, and social stability in Zimbabwe.