Sunday Mail Reporters
GOVERNMENT and the private sector have heighted efforts to fight the growing menace of drug and substance abuse.
Yesterday, a number of events took place across the country, including a sports gala in Chinhoyi and engagements in Southerton, Harare and Chitungwiza.
In Southerton, the Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Church organised a march in Southerton to raise awareness about the devastating effects of drug abuse.
The march, which began at the Southerton Shopping Centre, featured church members and the Zimbabwe Republic Police Band.
Marchers eventually gathered at Southerton Primary School, where they were addressed by Government officials, police and representatives from the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs and Devolution Senator Charles Tawengwa, who was represented by Mr Ignatius Mungure, the deputy director in his ministry, called for collaboration between the Government and families.
“This is a sad time for us as businesses are losing professionals due to drugs,” he said.
He urged parents to closely monitor their children’s movements, highlighting the critical role of family support in preventing drug abuse.
A senior member of the SDA Church, Elder Dr Eliot Chikati, highlighted the church’s commitment to addressing the challenge.
“We cannot stand by while our youths are robbed of their future. Our children involved in drugs often engage in criminal activities, affecting the church and the community,” he said.
Dr Chikati said many individuals turn to drugs due to adverse circumstances, underscoring the urgency of community intervention.
CID Drugs and Narcotics Detective Assistant Inspector Netty Kundizezo urged the public to avoid drugs and report illicit dealers.
She emphasised the dangers associated with drug use, particularly for youths, and warned of the high risks at social gatherings where drugs might be unknowingly consumed.
Southerton legislator Bridget Nyandoro stressed the importance of collective action in addressing the drug menace.
“Parents must take part. We need collective efforts,” she urged, calling for stronger penalties for drug dealers to deter the spread of illicit substances.
The post NEW: Government, private sector join hands in drug and substance abuse fight appeared first on herald.
The post NEW: Government, private sector join hands in drug and substance abuse fight appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.