MORE REHAB CENTRES IN BATTLE AGAINST DRUGS

MORE rehabilitation centers for victims of drug and substance abuse are being set up in major cities and towns to relieve pressure from existing institutions.

Agricultural shows, primary and secondary school events at growth points, universities, colleges and online programs at various television and radio stations across the country will raise awareness about drug abuse.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Monica Mutsvangwa, said the increase in drugs and substance abuse posed a danger to family life and society at large.

“The Drug and Substance Abuse Unit, within the Department of Social Welfare in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare has since been strengthened for effective coordination and programming of activities on curbing drug and substance abuse.

“The Inter-Ministerial Task Force on drug and substance abuse’s technical officers are continuously being trained on curbing drug and substance abuse by the Government with support from the World Health Organisation.

“Under the Operation Clean Up Zimbabwe campaign, the Inter-Ministerial Task Force managed to recover large quantities of dangerous drugs and substances,” she said.

Minister Mutsvangwa said surveillance was being enhanced at all ports of entry and exit, with personnel being trained to effectively detect the trafficking of dangerous drugs and substances.

“Steps are being taken to mobilise the whole of society, from the family unit to villages, in order to achieve the much-needed traction in tackling the drug and substance abuse scourge.

“Cabinet has also resolved to adequately equip youth training centers and to revive the broader National Youth Service Programme in order to develop youths into productive citizens.

“Youth empowerment will be enhanced through information communication technology skills training, among other essentials.

H METRO