FAITH NDOU
MASVINGO-All seven districts in Masvingo Province now have access to rehabilitation facilities as government intensifies efforts to combat the growing challenge of drug and substance abuse.
Speaking during a press briefing on drug and substance abuse, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira said the province has identified and operationalised rehabilitation centres in all districts to improve access to treatment and recovery services.
The rehabilitation facilities include Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital for Masvingo Province, Chambuta in Chiredzi District, Zivuku Clinic in Chivi District, Mushava Clinic in Mwenezi District, Muvava Clinic in Bikita District and Bota Clinic in Zaka District.
In Masvingo District, Clipsham House has been designated as the district rehabilitation centre but is currently undergoing renovations.
During this period, patients from the district are being referred to Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital for treatment and rehabilitation services.
Chadzamira said the rehabilitation centres form part of the government’s response under the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030), which seeks to provide comprehensive support to individuals, families and communities affected by drug and substance abuse.
“Government recognises that drug and substance abuse is multifaceted and requires multi-sectoral responses and system-wide action for a healthy and secure nation that is free of illicit drug and substance abuse,” said Chadzamira.
From January to date, 162 suspects comprising 125 males and 37 females have been arrested on drug-related offences, with youths accounting for the majority of those affected. Law enforcement agents also recovered 533.49 kilograms of cannabis and 7,512 bottles of cough syrups including BronCleer and Benylin (100ml), with the total value of seized substances estimated at US$7.08 million.
The minister revealed that significant progress has been made in rehabilitation efforts across the province.
A total of 113 people were admitted for rehabilitation, comprising 108 males and five females. Of these, 32 have been successfully rehabilitated while 81 remain in rehabilitation programmes.
Chadzamira said the province is also working to strengthen rehabilitation services and long-term recovery programmes.
“These resources will help us to expand access to rehabilitation services and ensure that restorative care is integrated into our health delivery systems, while training of more mental health professionals and provision of aftercare services to reduce relapse will be prioritised,” he said.
To support these efforts, Masvingo City Council has offered four hectares of land for the establishment of a dedicated rehabilitation centre.
The province also launched an anti-drug and substance abuse fundraising campaign last year which attracted pledges amounting to US$27,000 from individuals and corporate organisations.
Chadzamira commended those who have honoured their pledges and urged others to fulfil their commitments.
On government coordination efforts, he said authorities were strengthening cooperation among various stakeholders to tackle the drug menace.
“Government is strengthening coordination across ministries, departments and agencies to ensure a unified and effective response. Our Anti-Drug and Substance Abuse Pillars remain active to support all efforts at combating this menace and I urge our districts to match the drive so that together, we fight this with the zeal and aggressiveness it deserves,” said Chadzamira.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Child Care has strengthened mental health services by employing four psychologists and 14 social workers to provide psychosocial support and rehabilitation services. The ministry has also introduced a new mental health screening tool that includes drug and substance abuse assessments and has already been rolled out in most health facilities across the province.
Calling for collective action, Chadzamira said the fight against drug and substance abuse required the participation of every sector of society.
“The fight against drug and substance abuse is everyone’s responsibility. Government alone cannot overcome this challenge without the active participation of communities, families, religious organisations, schools, the private sector and every citizen,” he said.
