Government Targets Drug Lords

Government has reiterated its commitment to eradicating drug and substance abuse, a growing threat to public health, social stability, and national development.

This message was delivered during a high-level national dialogue held at Manna Resorts in Harare, organised by the National Economic Consultative Forum (NECF) under the theme “From Addiction to Action: Addressing the Causes and Building Solutions for Drug and Substance Abuse in Zimbabwe.”

Representing the Minister of Defence and Chairperson of the National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, Hon. Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, Local Government and Public Works Minister Hon. Daniel Garwe warned that the time for decisive action is now.

In his keynote address, Minister Garwe described drug abuse as a national crisis rapidly evolving into a public health emergency and a socio-economic and security threat.

“Drug and substance abuse is not sparing anyone. It is destroying our youth, tearing families apart, and fueling crimes such as robbery, murder, gender-based violence, and reckless driving,” said Garwe.

Citing international statistics, he noted that 316 million people globally were affected by drug use in 2024. Africa is projected to experience a 40% surge by 2030 if interventions are not accelerated. In Zimbabwe, he said, 60% of mental health patients are being treated for drug-related disorders.

Garwe commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa for prioritizing the national response through elevating the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse to a Multi-Sectoral National Committee.

In 2023, the Government launched the Multi-Sectoral Action Plan (2024–2030), aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3.5, which targets strengthening prevention and treatment of substance abuse.

President Mnangagwa also mobilized US$3.1 million to support the plan’s implementation, which is anchored on a seven-pillar strategy addressing prevention, treatment, law enforcement, rehabilitation, and reintegration, among other areas.

Garwe stressed that the success of the plan depends on strong partnerships, community involvement, and grassroots action.

He called on churches, families, traditional leaders, and youth to lead efforts in prevention and recovery.

“Recovery is possible. We must give our youth a second chance. Let us build systems that support, not condemn them,” he said.

He also emphasised the need for ongoing research and data collection to inform effective policy, adding that the dialogue should serve as a catalyst for real action.

“Today’s dialogue is not just a forum—it is a turning point. The future of this country is in the hands of our youth. Let’s protect that future by restoring their dignity and helping those already affected,” he said.

As Zimbabwe moves toward achieving Vision 2030, the Government reaffirmed that it will leave no stone unturned in its effort to build a prosperous, empowered upper-middle-income society free from the scourge of drugs.

Traditional and political leaders were urged to exercise their authority in safeguarding communities from drug-related harm.

The event was attended by key cabinet members including Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Hon. Jenfan Muswere; Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Hon. July Moyo; Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland West Hon. Mary Mliswa-Chikoka; along with senior government officials, chiefs, and representatives from development partners.