79 Illegal Drug Bases Dismantled

Zim Now Writer

Government has escalated its fight against drug and substance abuse, dismantling 79 illegal drug bases and arresting 9,527 offenders between September 1, 2024, and January 31, 2025.

Presenting the latest update, Minister of Skills Audit and Development, Honourable Paul Mavima, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse.

He emphasised that the administration would not allow youth to be destroyed by these substances and stressed the importance of collaboration with law enforcement and international agencies to crack down on suppliers and users.

Out of the total arrests, 616 were drug suppliers, while 8,911 were end users.

Authorities also intercepted three individuals smuggling 23 kilograms of dagga from Zambia. Meanwhile, the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe conducted 117 inspections, shutting down five non-compliant premises.

Beyond law enforcement, the government has intensified efforts to rehabilitate affected individuals and educate communities.

So far, 155,421 youths have benefited from vocational training programs, while the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has integrated drug awareness into the school curriculum, reaching 7,274,939 learners.

Additionally, 62,656 students have participated in prevention programs through the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education.

Minister Mavima highlighted the role of education in prevention, stating that integrating drug awareness into the curriculum would equip young people with knowledge to make informed choices.

Various ministries and organisations have stepped up awareness campaigns. The Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development has reached 111,537 people, while the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, and Arts has engaged 11,836 youths in cultural and sports activities.

Religious organizations have also contributed to prevention efforts, educating 16,759 congregants on drug abuse.

Community-based organizations such as the Visionary Cadres Association of Zimbabwe and Mubatirapamwe have reached over 2,130 individuals with anti-drug messages.

To support affected individuals, the government has opened three new rehabilitation centers in Victoria Falls, Harare, and Kwekwe. A total of 13,695 people have received psychosocial support, with 886 individuals successfully reintegrated into their families.

In addition, 6,695 parents have attended parenting sessions to help them support affected children, while 1,161 people have accessed assistance via an online support platform.

Mavima reiterated that the government is leaving no stone unturned in tackling the crisis.