...Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo
By Tamuka Charakupa
MASHONALAND West Province has raised more than ZiG4.3 million towards the establishment of drug rehabilitation centres as Government intensifies efforts to tackle drug and substance abuse.
Provincial authorities say the funds will support rehabilitation, prevention and community intervention programmes aimed at addressing the growing impact of substance abuse across the province.
Briefing journalists in Chinhoyi yesterday, Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo said Government is now identifying idle public buildings that can be converted into rehabilitation facilities.
“As Mashonaland West Province, we have so far raised more than ZiG4.3 million towards the fight against drug and substance abuse, and these resources will strengthen our efforts in prevention, rehabilitation and support programmes for affected individuals,” she said.
Honourable Chombo said authorities remain committed to a coordinated approach involving Government institutions, communities and other stakeholders.
“The fight against drug and substance abuse requires a collective effort. Government institutions, traditional leaders, churches, communities and all stakeholders must continue working together because addressing this challenge is everyone’s responsibility,” she said.
The province has so far conducted close to 200 awareness campaigns targeting communities, schools and youths as part of wider efforts to strengthen prevention and public education programmes.
Government has identified drug and substance abuse as one of the major social challenges affecting young people, with authorities scaling up awareness, enforcement and rehabilitation initiatives nationwide.
ZBC News