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President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Wednesday, June 26, launched the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan at State House in Harare where he rallied the nation to decisively deal with the scourge of drug and substance abuse.
The launch coincided with the annual United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking which was commemorated under the theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”.
Speaking at the launch, Mnangagwa warned that if left unchecked, drug and substance abuse could undermine the country’s development goals. He said (via <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/2nd-republic-tackles-drug-abuse-menace/">The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
Unfortunately, Zimbabwe being part of the global world, has not been spared. Drug and substance abuse has become a significant public health, socio-economic and national security challenge as well as a potential threat to the country’s development trajectory.
My Government is taking decisive actions using a Whole of Government and Society approach. The nation’s successful response to the COVID-19 pandemic taught us many lessons, which we must harness as we tackle this scourge.
In this regard, the Second Republic continues to collaborate with all stakeholders in tackling the menace of drug and substance abuse.
It also has far-reaching consequences on drug users such as poor health aftermaths, social and economic problems, as well as psychosocial effects, among a range of negative outcomes.
This scourge knows no bounds. It is affecting all socio-economic levels and across religious groupings, destroying lives and families.
This public health concern is further undermining the social fabric of our beautiful nation, particularly the youth, who are productive segments of our economy.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa said the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030) will guide our nation’s response to Drug and Substance Abuse comprehensively and collaboratively. He said:
<blockquote>
This plan provides us with a detailed roadmap that will guide our nation’s response to Drug and Substance Abuse in a comprehensive and collaborative manner.
As outlined, we are committed to supporting multi-stakeholder engagement and actions across the whole of Government and different sectors, through targeted and collaborative interventions.
The seven critical pillars tabulated in the plan should result in supply reduction; demand reduction; harm reduction, treatment and rehabilitation; as well as psychosocial support and community reintegration.
Greater coordination around policy and legal enforcement; media and communication, supported by resource mobilisation and economic strengthening must accelerate the realisation of visible results.
</blockquote>
The launch was attended by Cabinet ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, deputy ministers, permanent secretaries, vice chancellors of universities, school heads and other senior Government officials.
Some commonly abused substances in Zimbabwe are codeine, methamphetamine (also known as crystal meth, speed, mutoriro, chalk, ice, crank, or guka), glue, broncleer/bronco (a cough syrup containing codeine), solvents, chlorpromazine, mangemba (a locally brewed alcoholic beverage), cane spirit, cocaine, and Cannabis/Marijuana/Mbanje.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Mnangagwa Unveils Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug And Substance Abuse Plan

Dr. Johannes Marisa, a medical practitioner, educationist, and public health expert, says he is concerned about the increasing number of young children, some as young as 10 years old, turning to drugs. He says the global issue of drug abuse has resulted in a significant loss of lives.
Marisa says there are over 190 million drug users worldwide, with the problem particularly affecting young adults below the age of 30. He quotes Roser (2018) who asserts that illicit drug use directly and indirectly causes over 750,000 deaths annually, including 166,000 deaths from drug overdoses. Opioids are identified as the primary cause of overdoses among illicit drugs. We present an extract from his article first published by the <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/standard-people/article/200017373/health-talk-drug-abuse-a-cause-for-concern">Standard</a>:
<blockquote>
Contributors to drug abuse
So many reasons have been given for abusing drugs. Drugs of abuse are usually psychoactive that are used by people for treatment of various health problems.
Curiosity and peer pressure, especially among school children and young adults: Being asked to drink or smoke by friends is one of the strongest predictors of substance abuse in adolescents, even outweighing parenting styles or parental drinking behaviour.
Family dynamics: Maladaptive family dynamics can contribute to substance abuse. Unhealthy attachment styles and dysfunctional family roles can contribute immensely to drug abuse and your early relationships can have a long-lasting impact on your psyche and how you relate to others throughout your life.
Trauma: The link between trauma and substance abuse is strong. Types of trauma that can contribute to drug addiction include assault, rape, sexual abuse, natural disasters and witnessing traumatic events.
Substance use by caregivers: Growing up in an environment where there was heavy alcohol drinking or smoking can predict problem drinking later in life
Genetic factors: Studies done to show the link between genetics and addiction show heritability of the problem at 30-70%
Mental health: Substance abuse and mental health issues often go hand in hand. About half of people with mental health disorders will have substance abuse in their lifestyle. Mental health issues can lead to drug abuse
</blockquote>
<h3>Drug Categories:</h3>
– Depressants: Cause depression of brain faculties (e.g., sleeping pills, heroin). 
– Stimulants: Induce brain stimulation and increased activity (e.g., amphetamines, cocaine, nicotine). 
– Hallucinogens: Cause hallucinations and dissociation (e.g., ecstasy, mescaline).
<h3>Effects of Drug Abuse:</h3>
– Transmissible Infections: High risk of viral transmission through needle sharing. 
– Social Neglect: Drug abusers may face social neglect and increased suicide rates. 
– Academic Decline: Drug abuse leads to school abandonment and decreased academic performance. 
– Increased Accidents: Drug use by drivers contributes to accidents and loss of lives.
<h3>Measures to Address Drug Abuse:</h3>
– Counselling: Provide comprehensive counselling on the dangers of drug abuse. 
– Engage Youth: Keep youth actively involved in tasks, activities, and sports. 
– Talent Identification: Identify and nurture talents within the community to divert focus from drugs.
Dr. Marisa emphasizes the need for law enforcement to take action against drug suppliers with strong deterrent sentences. Drug abuse is causing harm to our communities, and it is alarming that drug suppliers are openly known and unpunished. We must unite against drug abuse as it negatively impacts the lives of our children. If your child’s behaviour has suddenly changed, be vigilant and suspicious of possible drug abuse. Together, we can combat this issue and protect our children’s well-being.
Dr Johannes Marisa can be reached at doctormarisa@gmail.com
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Public Health Expert Dr. Marisa Concerned About Rising Drug Use Among Children

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi has announced the arrest of a number of people over possession of illegal drugs. In a statement seen by Pindula News, Nyathi said police had intensified its fight against <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">drug-peddling</a> syndicates in the country and made several recent arrests. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
<h3>ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR POSSESSION OF ILLEGAL DRUGS</h3>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified the fight against illegal drug-peddling syndicates in the country and assures the public of readiness to ensure that the law takes its course without fear or favour.
On 21st July 2023, detectives from CID Drugs and Narcotics acted on received information and arrested Tinashe Utete (24) at Tashinga Car Park, Zengeza 5, Chitungwiza for unlawful possession of 5.34 grammes of Crystal Meth with a street value of ZW$300 000.00.
In a related case, Precious Manyere (37) was arrested at a house along Dunmore Street, Queensdale, Harare on 21st July 2023 for illegal possession of one (1) gramme of Crystal Meth with a street value of ZWL$ 70 000.00.
On 22nd July 2023, detectives from CID Drugs and Narcotics, Harare recovered 2,253 kilogrammes of dagga and 49.4 kilogrammes of Crystal Meth after receiving information from an informant that he had been given a bag in Beitbridge containing the drugs by a suspect who is yet to be identified. The drugs were to be delivered to a certain man in Bulawayo.
Meanwhile, on 23rd July 2023, detectives from CID Drugs and Narcotics, Bulawayo reacted to a tip off and arrested Mbonis Mpofu (46) at Yonah Shopping Centre, Entumbane in connection with illegal possession of three (3) grammes of Methacathinone with a street value of $40 800.00. 
Criminals involved in drug trafficking and peddling in communities will certainly be arrested. We urge the public to continue reporting illicit drug activities to the Police.
</blockquote>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Several Suspects Arrested In Zimbabwe In Fight Against Drug Syndicates

The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church is using sports to fight drug and substance abuse among youths in Matabeleland South Province.
The SDA church, working with its partners, hosted a sports gala in Bulilima District to educate young people on the effects of the scourge.
On Sunday, the church held various sporting activities such as football, volleyball, basketball and netball.
Youths who spoke to <a href="https://zbcnews.co.zw/2023/06/13/church-uses-sport-to-fight-drug-and-substance-abuse/">ZBC News</a> welcomed the initiative saying young people now have something to keep them occupied. Said a youth:
<blockquote>
We appreciate this initiative to fight drug and substance abuse through sport because it makes youth have something to do in the rural area.
The fact that this initiative is not a once of thing but a program is an ongoing initiative and will help us as youths in the area to concentrate on the activities especially those that love sports.
</blockquote>
Brian Moyo of the Adventist Church said drug and substance abuse is no longer affecting urban societies only but has cascaded to rural areas as well. Moyo said:
<blockquote>
This is a good initiative but it is high time to take awareness campaigns to places that have been marginalised for a long period such as rural areas.
Although drug and substance abuse seems to be prevalent in urban areas, the effects are also being felt in rural areas.
There is a need to talk about how Omalayitsha are bringing drugstore from Botswana and South Africa supplying youths.
We are going to capacitate the youths around the area of Solusi so that we tackle this issue and avoid relapses.
</blockquote>
Commonly used substances in Zimbabwe include glue, bronclee, mangemba, tumbwa, cane sprit, marijuana, codeine and crystal meth (guka, dombo, mutoriro).
In case you have a son, daughter, friend, or relative who has a problem with drug abuse, the following public psychiatric institutions offer help in fighting drug addiction:
<blockquote>
1. Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
2. Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
3. Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)
4. Ngomahuru Hospital and Half-way House (Masvingo)
The following institutions also offer counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
1. Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999
2. Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238
3. Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245
4. Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014
5. Beatrice Rehabilitation Harare
6. Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

SDA Church Uses Sport To Fight Drug And Substance Abuse

The Government says police have confiscated illicit drugs and substances valued at nearly ZWL$500 million from about 6 000 suspected drug dealers and users since the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Drug and Substance Abuse in 2022.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima, told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/rbz-introduces-gold-backed-digital-currency">The Sunday Mail</a> that some of the drugs seized by the tasks are crystal meth, cocaine, Ecstasy, dagga, Adco-Saltarpyn, BronCleer, Histalix and Benylyn. He said:
<blockquote>
Regarding supply reduction, the taskforce has managed to conduct surveillance activities across the country, leading to the arrest and prosecution of a cumulative 6 156 accused persons.
This was done through intensified surveillance, under Operation Clean Up Zimbabwe, where the taskforce managed to recover drugs and substances valued at $438 654 692, being crystal meth, cocaine, Ecstasy, dagga, Adco-Saltarpyn, BronCleer, Histalix and Benylyn.
</blockquote>
Mavima also said the taskforce undertook surveillance missions at the Beitbridge Border Post, Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport and Victoria Falls International Airport.
He said the visits by the taskforce established that the porosity of border posts and airports, limited scanning equipment and limited staff capacity are the major causes of drugs and substances not being detected upon entry into Zimbabwe.
The Government recently established a $500 million drug and substance abuse mitigation fund towards the fight against drug and substance abuse. Said Mavima:
<blockquote>
The purpose of the fund is to finance activities of all the pillars in terms of surveillance, awareness raising, capacity-building, purchase of medication, rehabilitation and psycho-social support, as well as community reintegration support.
The fund is administered by the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, and all pillars access the funds upon request, in line with the budget and plan.
Additionally, there is room for special requests for additional funds whenever justifiable need arises.
</blockquote>
In case you have a son, daughter, friend, or relative who has a problem with drug abuse, the following public psychiatric institutions offer help in fighting drug addiction:
<blockquote>
1. Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
2. Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
3. Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)
4. Ngomahuru Hospital and Half-way House (Masvingo)
The following institutions also offer counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
1. Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999
2. Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238
3. Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245
4. Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014
5. Beatrice Rehabilitation Harare
6. Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Recover Illicit Drugs Worth $500 Million

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) commissioner-general, Godwin Matanga says the police force needs more resources to fully fight drug-related crimes, reported <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/drug-abuse-police-pleads-for-more-resources/">Business Times</a>.
Speaking at the Vision 2030 Movement engagement conference in Bulawayo last week, Matanga said currently the ZRP is not adequately equipped to fight the drug scourge. He said:
<blockquote>
These include high-powered motor vehicles for high-speed chases and low-cost vehicles for patrols and surveillance, state-of-the-art technologies at ports of entry and exit, as well as funding for more localised and international training to catch up with new skills requirements in this field.
</blockquote>
Matanga said police have arrested over 4 000 people, including 466 suppliers. He added:
<blockquote>
Again we confiscated and destroyed large quantities of substances. The drug mules from Brazil, India, Nigeria, and Latvia have been arrested while using undesignated points of entry to move the contraband.
</blockquote>
Commonly used substances in Zimbabwe include glue, bronclee, mangemba, tumbwa, cane sprit, marijuana, codeine and crystal meth (guka, dombo, mutoriro).
In case you have a son, daughter, friend, or relative who has a problem with drug abuse, the following public psychiatric institutions offer help in fighting drug addiction:
<blockquote>
1. Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
2. Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
3. Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)
4. Ngomahuru Hospital and Half-way House (Masvingo)
The following institutions also offer counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
1. Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999
2. Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238
3. Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245
4. Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014
5. Beatrice Rehabilitation Harare
6. Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Boss Pleads For More Resources To Combat Drug Abuse

Cabinet has approved the proposed structures for the establishment of the National Committee on the Elimination of Drug and Substance Abuse in Zimbabwe.
The Committee is expected to devise systematic and sustainable responses that will assist in curbing drug and substance abuse in the country.
Speaking after a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday evening, the Minister of Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services Monica Mutsvangwa said:
<blockquote>
Following Cabinet’s decision at its last Meeting to establish an institutional framework to decisively deal with the menace, Cabinet has decided to set up a National Committee on the Elimination of Drug and Substance Abuse.
The Committee will be empowered to come up with systematic and sustainable responses that will assist in ensuring that society is free of drug and substance abuse.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa added that most of the illicit drugs being consumed in Zimbabwe are imported. She said:
<blockquote>
Most of the dangerous drugs and substances being abused are imported, with the traffickers acting in cahoots with local drug lords and an array of criminal elements in our society.
</blockquote>
Drug and substance abuse is a growing problem in Zimbabwe, particularly among low-income and homeless youths.
Commonly used substances in Zimbabwe include glue, bronclee, mangemba, cane sprit, marijuana, codeine and methamphetamine (crystal meth).
Studies show that some young people start to abuse alcohol, drugs and other substances at the age of 12 years.
In case you have a son, daughter, friend, or relative who has a problem with drug abuse, the following public psychiatric institutions offer help in fighting drug addiction:
<blockquote>
1. Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
2. Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
3. Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)
4. Ngomahuru Hospital and Half-way House (Masvingo)
The following institutions also offer counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
1. Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999
2. Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238
3. Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245
4. Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014
5. Beatrice Rehabilitation Harare
6. Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cabinet Forms National Committee On The Elimination Of Drugs

A man believed to be 23 years old from Mawane village in the Garanyemba area of Gwanda ran amok and destroyed property belonging to his neighbour.
The suspect, Jasper Sibanda, accused his elderly neighbour identified as Gogo MaNdlovu of spreading lies about him. He destroyed her three houses.
Ward 13 Mawane councillor Mitlas Ndlovu confirmed the incident to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010063/gwanda-youth-runs-amok">Southern Eye</a> saying Sibanda is currently on the run. Said Ndlovu:
<blockquote>
The incident happened last week on Friday around 11 pm, he wanted to kill Gogo MaNdlovu’s two nieces accusing them of gossiping about him.
When they (nieces) heard him threatening to kill them they ran away from home together with their granny and hid in the bush.
That is when Sibanda started destroying the homestead until 4 AM.
There is a big challenge here in Garanyemba of youths engaging in a lot of drug abuse. We need a police station here to curb all these activities.
Another elderly woman from Mawane 2 was also raped last week by another youth. I do not know why these youths are targeting old women.
</blockquote>
Ndlovu said the matter was reported to the police.
According to the Society for the Study of Addiction (SSA), Zimbabwe’s illicit substance use problem increased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Commonly used substances in Zimbabwe include glue, bronclee, mangemba, cane sprit, marijuana, codeine and methamphetamine (crystal meth).
Very high unemployment rates in Zimbabwe, coupled with poverty and despair, have resulted in increasing numbers of youthful citizens also turning to use drugs as a way of entertainment.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Gwanda Youth Ran Amok, Destroys 3 Houses

The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church held a child-dedicated service in Emganwini, Bulawayo on Saturday to fight drug abuse.
Emganwini Seventh-day Adventist church district pastor Obadiah Ngwenya told <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local-news/article/200010023/sda-joins-drug-abuse-fight">Southern Eye</a> that the service was held under the theme: “There is Peace in the Midst of a Storm”.
He said that 77 children participated and dedicated themselves to God. Said Ngwenya:
<blockquote>
Among them were 25 non-Adventists, who were accompanied by their family members.
Child dedication is a service that acknowledges that God is the only one who knows how to safeguard children.
God protects and guides the children and baptises them with the Holy Spirit.
The whole assurance of protection comes from God so that children are protected from all the social ills of this world.
</blockquote>
Ward 26 councillor Mpumelelo Moyo commended the church for participating in the fight against drug abuse. Moyo said:
It is important for the church to take a leading role in the fight against drug and substance abuse, and to groom young people to become responsible citizens.
According to <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/add.15729">the Society for the Study of Addiction (SSA)</a>, Zimbabwe’s illicit substance use problem increased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Commonly used substances in Zimbabwe include glue, bronclee, mangemba, cane sprit, marijuana, codeine and methamphetamine (crystal meth).
Very high unemployment rates in Zimbabwe, coupled with poverty and despair, have resulted in increasing numbers of youthful citizens also turning to use drugs as a way of entertainment.
According to the Ministry of Health and Child Care, people who have problems with drug abuse can be assisted at the following public as well as private health centres:
In case you have a son, daughter, friend, or relative who has a problem with drug abuse, the following public psychiatric institutions offer help in fighting drug addiction:
<blockquote>
1. Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
2. Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
3. Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)
4. Ngomahuru Hospital and Half-way House (Masvingo)
The following institutions also offer counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
1. Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999
2. Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238
3. Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245
4. Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014
5. Beatrice Rehabilitation Harare
6. Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

SDA Church Joins Fight Against Drug And Substance Abuse

A 71-year-old foreign national was arrested on Saturday at the Robert Mugabe International Airport while trying to smuggle drugs worth ZWL$3 million.
The drug mule, Hans Arne Ingemar Petersson, had 3 kilogrammes of heroin stashed in a plastic bag that was in one of his traveling bags.
ZRP national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest. He said:
<blockquote>
On 08 April 2023, detectives from CID Drugs and Narcotics, Harare acted on the received information and arrested a foreign national, Hans Arne Ingemar Petersson (71) at RGM Airport, in connection with possession of 3kgs of Heroin with an estimated street value of ZWL$3 400 000.00.
The drugs were recovered stashed in a plastic bag, which was in a false compartment created in a suitcase.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/add.15729">the Society for the Study of Addiction (SSA)</a>, Zimbabwe’s illicit substance use problem increased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Commonly used substances in Zimbabwe include glue, bronclee, mangemba, cane sprit, marijuana, codeine and methamphetamine (crystal meth).
Very high unemployment rates in Zimbabwe, coupled with poverty and despair, have resulted in increasing numbers of youthful citizens also turning to use drugs as a way of entertainment.
According to the Ministry of Health and Child Care, people who have problems with drug abuse can be assisted at the following public as well as private health centres:
In case you have a son, daughter, friend, or relative who has a problem with drug abuse, the following public psychiatric institutions offer help in fighting drug addiction:
<blockquote>
1. Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
2. Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
3. Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)
4. Ngomahuru Hospital and Half-way House (Masvingo)
The following institutions also offer counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
1. Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999
2. Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238
3. Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245
4. Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014
5. Beatrice Rehabilitation Harare
6. Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Police Intercept 71 Year Old Drug Mule Carrying $3 Million Heroin

Shamwari Yemwanasikana (SYS) held a drug and substance abuse campaign in Tagarika 3 Flats, Mbare, Harare, on Wednesday last week and engaged drug users, victims of drug abuse and concerned citizens.
Mbare is considered one of the country’s drug hotspots and has witnessed a rise in cases of rape, school dropouts, teen pregnancies, family disputes, delinquency and theft.
In a statement, Shamwari Yemwanasikana urged members of the public to join the fight against drug and substance abuse. It said:
<blockquote>
Mbare has no stability and not every child has access to educational material or can afford to go to school.
As a result, they end up resorting to drugs and substances such as glue, broncleer, mangemba, cane sprit, marijuana, codeine and crystal meth.
The situation we encountered while conducting our campaign is very disheartening and it is sad that we are letting an entire generation go down the drain because of pressure from drug users and from things they encounter in their communities.
</blockquote>
According to the Ministry of Health and Child Care, people who have problems with drug abuse can be assisted at the following public as well as private health centres:
In case you have a son, daughter, friend, or relative who has a problem with drug abuse, the following public psychiatric institutions offer help in fighting drug addiction:
<blockquote>
1. Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
2. Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
3. Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)
4. Ngomahuru Hospital and Half-way House (Masvingo)
The following institutions also offer counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
1. Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999
2. Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238
3. Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245
4. Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014
5. Beatrice Rehabilitation Harare
6. Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Shamwari Yemwanasikana Tackles Drug Abuse In Mbare

Harare model Tumelo Nare will spend more time behind bars after she was on Wednesday further remanded in custody to next month.
The police requested more time to finalise investigations into her drug case.
<a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/model-nare-to-spend-more-time-behind-bars/">H-Metro</a> reported that Nare, who is being charged together with Precious Bango, was remanded to 7 April.
The duo first appeared in court at the beginning of March but were denied bail on the basis that they are facing a serious offence.
The magistrate ruled that the two failed to give a reasonable defence making them unsuitable candidates for bail.
<h2>The Allegations</h2>
The court heard that Nare, Bango, and one Jason Leeroy Pamhidzai, who is at large, checked into a local hotel.
At around 6.30 PM on 5 February, the two women allegedly started behaving strangely strolling around the hotel naked.
Delegates attending a seminar at the hotel called the police who went and arrested the duo.
The police found cocaine, an illegal drug, in their hotel room.
In their bail application, the two told the court that Pamhidzai was the cocaine consumer and that Nare, who is epileptic, had seizures.
They claimed that Nare started bleeding from the nose and Bango ran around the corridors seeking for help.
<h2>Drug Menace In Zimbabwe</h2>
According to the Ministry of Health and Child Care, people who have problems with drug abuse can be assisted at the following public as well as private health centres:
In case you have a son, daughter, friend, or relative who has a problem with drug abuse, the following public psychiatric institutions offer help in fighting drug addiction:
<blockquote>
1. Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
2. Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
3. Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)
4. Ngomahuru Hospital and Half-way House (Masvingo)
The following institutions also offer counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
1. Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999
2. Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238
3. Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245
4. Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014
5. Beatrice Rehabilitation Harare
6. Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare
</blockquote>
On 03 February this year, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/police-declare-war-on-drug-dealers">launched a nationwide operation</a> dubbed “No to Dangerous Drugs and Illicit Substances: See Something, Say Something” to clamp down on drug cartels responsible for distributing illicit substances such as crystal methamphetamine, marijuana and illegal cough syrups.
Speaking on 20 February in Ethiopia during a wide-ranging interview with Zimbabwean journalists where he was attending an African Union summit, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/president-speaks-on-drugs/">President Emmerson Mnangagwa said the government</a> will soon review the law on dangerous drugs. He said:
<blockquote>
As you may be aware, we have recently moved in on dealing with the question of drugs among the youth.
I have instructed the police that anybody found drunk anywhere must be picked up and arrested and tell us where he got the drugs.
We are asking all institutions in the country churches and schools where ever you find people dealing with drugs or young people using drugs they must be arrested and make sure we protect our young people from drugs.
We also think the parents must take responsibility if they are unable to control their children they must report to the police what is happening because that will save their children.
We are going to be harsh in dealing with this issue especially those that bring drugs into the country.
We may, down the line, look at the sentencing of drug peddlers and increase the sentence.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare Model Tumelo Nare To Spend More Time Behind Bars

Former CAPS United captain Moses Muchenje (31) says he is ready to re-launch his career after successfully undergoing rehabilitation from drug addiction.
Muchenje, who is yet to find a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, on Wednesday told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/former-caps-united-captain-opens-up-on-drug-abuse/">The Herald</a> that started excessive alcohol consumption due to a myriad of challenges that he was facing. He said:
<blockquote>
For close to two years, I was a victim of alcohol abuse as a result of too many problems. I was stressed and the stress culminated in depression.
The alcohol abuse spree affected my relationship with so many people including my family.
I wasn’t myself. I last played competitive football in 2021 during that Chibuku Super Cup bubble when I was still at Harare City Football Club. So many things were happening and I got too stressed.
I failed to handle the pressure and eventually I slipped into acute depression. That’s how I started abusing alcohol. I became addicted and for the rest of 2022, I was on the sidelines.
But, somehow, something kept telling me that I was supposed to be a footballer and I even trained with Yadah with a view to signing a contract with them last year. But again all that came to naught as I always abused substances.
Then my brother (name withheld) came up with this idea of rehabilitation to save not only my career but my life as well.
</blockquote>
With the help of Jadel Football Academy, Muchenje was placed under rehabilitation at Mubatirapamwe Trust. He said:
<blockquote>
I have spent close to three months here (Mubatirapamwe Trust) and next week I will be leaving. I am very happy as I have become myself once again.
… I am very fit due to the training I have also been receiving during my time here. Physically and mentally, I am ready to play the game again.
</blockquote>
Muchenje advised fellow athletes and members of the public to find safer and better ways of dealing with their problems rather than indulging in alcohol abuse.
Mubatirapamwe Trust executive director, Christina Madamombe, said Muchenje has been successfully rehabilitated.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former CAPS United Captain Saved From Drug Addiction

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has advised drug addicts and the relatives of those with drug abuse problems to seek professional help.
In a statement, the Ministry said people who have problems with drug abuse can be assisted at public as well as private health centres. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
In case you have a son, daughter, friend, or relative who has a problem with drug abuse, the following public psychiatric institutions offer help in fighting drug addiction:
1. Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
2. Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)
3. Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)
4. Ngomahuru Hospital and Half-way House (Masvingo)
The following institutions also offer counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
1. Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999
2. Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238
3. Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245
4. Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014
5. Beatrice Rehabilitation Harare
6. Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

LIST: Centres Helping Drug Addicts Recover

Drug abusers will no longer be treated as victims but as criminals, a senior government official has said.
Harare Metropolitan Affairs and Devolution secretary Tafadzwa Muguti on Friday said treating drug users as victims will not help in ending the scourge of drug abuse.
He was speaking at the launch of a national anti-drug operation dubbed No To Dangerous Drugs And illicit Substances; See Something Say Something. <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200006999/govt-declares-war-on-drug-abusers">NewsDay</a> quoted Muguti as saying:
<blockquote>
We have stopped looking at rehabilitation first before arrest because that is the mistake we were doing.
If we find someone who is under the influence of drugs, the law says that you can be arrested for being drunk and intoxicated in public.
So as it is, anyone who is found under the influence of drugs is eligible to arrest and they will tell us when they get sober where they would have bought the drug.
If we continue treating drug users as victims while they know exactly where the drugs are coming from, we won’t stop this pandemic.
</blockquote>
Police in Harare on Friday arrested 10 drug users and peddlers, with one of them found in possession of 50 bottles of Bron Cleer cough syrup.
During the raid yesterday, several drug users were nabbed at police roadblocks in Southerton.
Muguti said drug dealers are operating mainly from high-density suburbs and transporting the drugs using passenger vehicles. He said:
<blockquote>
As you saw today, we have captured a number of drug lords who were actually transporting drugs using passenger vehicles.
We are now aware that drug lords are now using high-density suburbs as safe havens. 
Government raised concern over the increasing involvement of schoolchildren in drug and substance abuse and implored school heads to treat drug offences as criminal offences, not as disciplinary offences.
</blockquote>

Drug Abusers To Be Treated As Criminals, Not Victims - Muguti

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education says it has mechanisms in place to deal with drug and substance abuse in schools in order to create a safe learning environment for all learners.
This comes after Dominican Convent High School in Harare expelled eight learners who were allegedly found in possession of drugs stashed in their belongings during a recent school trip to Nyanga.
Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson Taungana Ndoro said that school heads are obliged to suspend a learner for 14 days where they reasonably suspect them of serious misconduct, pending investigation. He further explained:
<blockquote>
If the head is satisfied, after a fair hearing, that the learner is guilty of serious misconduct that merits expulsion after consultation with the district schools inspector, then the pupils will be expelled.
Where a head has decided to expel a learner, they should give the parents written notice of the date on which the expulsion is to take effect, and, in the notice, they should state the reason for the decision to expel the learner.
Upon being notified of the expulsion, parents may appeal in writing to the provincial education director within 14 days of receiving the notice.
While the appeal is being determined, the learner who has been expelled is permitted to attend school.
However, provided that if the head of the school believes, on reasonable grounds, the learner’s attendance may lead to indiscipline or may result in injury of another person or damage to property, the head can prevent the learner from attending school for no more than a month after the appeal has been launched.
</blockquote>
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the police are carrying out the investigations into the Dominican Convent matter. | <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/measures-to-tackle-drug-abuse-in-schools">The Sunday Mail</a>

Govt Says There Are Mechanisms To Tackle Drug Abuse In Schools

Jiti musician, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Baba_Harare">Baba Harare</a>, whose real name is Braveman Chizvino, says awareness campaigns to highlight the dangers of drug abuse being carried out by authorities are a waste of time.
Posting on Twitter, Baba Harare said Zimbabwean youths are now devoid of hope and what is needed as a matter of urgency is to prove to young people that things can be better. <a href="https://twitter.com/BabaHarare1/status/1619272796458344448">He said:</a>
<blockquote>
Madrug awareness campaign aya is a waste of time. We all are aware of the drug pandemic. We need prevention strategies and meaningful activities.
Waking up in Zimbabwe sober as a youth is painful. Urgent instillation of hope is required.
</blockquote>
On 26 January 2023, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Dominican_Convent_High_School">Dominican Convent High School</a> expelled eight Form six learners after they were caught using illicit drugs during a school trip to Nyanga from the 12th to the 15th of January
Sister Kudzai Mutsure, head of the Upper School at the Convent, said a disciplinary committee found the girls guilty of violating the school’s drug policy.
Shadaya Knight, a social media personality on Friday said punishing drug addicts and drug awareness campaigns are a waste of time as long as those who smuggle the drugs into the country are roaming free. <a href="https://twitter.com/ShadayaKnight/status/1618937936829112320">He tweeted:</a>
<blockquote>
Arresting drug addicts &amp; expelling school kids caught with drugs doesn’t solve the drug problem one bit. Neither those useless drug awareness campaigns.
If you don’t want drugs in communities &amp; schools, go to the source – the kingpins who are smuggling &amp; manufacturing them.
But we all know that can never happen because those very same kingpins, some of them are the ones who are supposed to be the custodians of the law or are in cahoots with those supposed to be enforcing the laws. And at the same, a drug-ravaged youth population is easy to control.
And so unless as a society (the communities, NGOs &amp; lawmakers &amp; enforcers) sit at the same table &amp; take the necessary measures, this is a problem not going anywhere anytime soon. Learn or perish!
</blockquote>
On Monday, Bulawayo’s Entumbane community in partnership with the police, local schools and other stakeholders marched to raise awareness of the dangers of drug abuse.
The campaign followed the arrest, in the suburb, of three suspected drug dealers, one of them an ex-police officer, following a raid at their houses.

Drug Awareness Campaigns A Waste Of Time - Baba Harare

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is investigating the case of drug abuse at Dominican Convent High School in Harare following the suspension of eight learners for violating the school’s drug policy.
The school recently expelled eight Form Six girls for abusing drugs at the 2023 U6 leadership camp which was held in Nyanga from the 12th to the 15th of January.
ZRP national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said investigations are now underway to ascertain what happened. He said:
<blockquote>
We are conducting investigations to find out what happened because no report had been made before.
As we speak, our team from the CID is there to find out what really happened and we will issue a comprehensive statement.
</blockquote>
Drug dealers are reportedly using social media, mainly Instagram to market drugs they in turn package as cakes, chocolates, and biscuits they deliver at the school entrance.
A former student at the school told <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/drug-menace-police-probe-elite-school/">Business Times</a> that the latest development is only the tip of the iceberg adding drug abuse is widespread. Said the former student:
<blockquote>
We have seen this happening and drugs being brought in and out of the school where someone creates an Instagram page where they market these substances as cakes or anything but with weed or some kind of drug inside and they deliver at the school gate.
It is really everywhere and I think now it is out there because the school has issued a statement and some were caught but it is really everywhere with some schools calling in sniffer dogs. It everywhere.
</blockquote>

DRUG ABUSE: Police Probe Dominican Convent High School

Police in Bulawayo detained three suspects in the neighborhood of Entumbane and seized narcotics including dagga, alcohol, weight-gain pills, and cough syrups. Among the illegal items were drug-inhalation devices, the infamous “rizzler” smoking paper, skin-lightening treatments, and self-defense sprays.
The operation, according to Bulawayo police spokesman Inspector Abednico Ncube, is only one of several that the police is carrying out in the Entumbane suburb. He said that the raid followed the hospitalisation of 17 young people from the neighbourhood after the bought and used drugs from the neighbourhood.
In the Wednesday early morning raid, Elton Ndlovu (37), Asprila Maphosa (23) and Lydia Ndlovu-Mthikhulu (27) were detained. All of the accused have previously been detained for a variety of offences.
Drug and alcohol abuse in Zimbabwe has reportedly increased in the past few years. The reason range from worsening economic conditions to unemployment, and the availability of cheaper but highly intoxicating alcohol. The alcohol is sold in small bottles enabling prices as low as US 50 cents a bottle.
The drugs and cheap alcohol are easily accessible at houses in mostly the density residential suburbs in the country, who peddle them illegally. 
| <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/bulawayo-trio-arrested-in-early-morning-drug-raid/">The Chronicle</a>

Drugs, Illegal Substances Recovered In Police Raid

Guardians and parents with children enrolled at Cherutombo High School in Marondera have approached the government and other stakeholders to intervene and stop drug abuse and sexual deviance at the school.
This comes after several videos of visibly intoxicated learners at the school engaging in sex orgies were leaked on social media platforms.
The concerned parents wrote a letter to Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs minister Apolonia Munzverengwi asking her to intervene.
The letter, which was copied to various stakeholders, among them the police and church leaders, reads in part:
<blockquote>
Is Cherutombo High School a learning institution or has it turned into a brothel? We used to see the police coming to lecture learners every Wednesday, but this has since stopped.
Can you assist with arresting rogue students who drugged a female student before taking turns to sexually abuse her while others were recording videos?
This video is being sold at the school for US$5. Minister (Munzverengwi) can you please intervene in this case to save the children?
</blockquote>
Recently, a team led by counsellor and cleric Lameck Tsiga visited schools in Marondera where they educated learners on the dangers and effects of drug abuse.
ZRP acting spokesperson in Mashonaland East Province, Assistant Inspector Misheck Denhere, said they are moving around Marondera schools educating learners about the dangers of drug and substance abuse. He said:
<blockquote>
We are calling on parents and guardians to monitor their children and see whether they are involved in drug abuse or not.
We are also seeking information that may lead to drug suppliers and their agents.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002917/outrage-as-school-turns-into-brothel">NewsDay</a>

Parents Write To Minister Over Sexual Deviance At School In Marondera

Drug and alcohol abuse among National Prosecution Authority (NPA) workers is so rampant that some are losing their minds.
This was revealed in the NPA strategic plan review 2022 governance and administration report from January to October prepared by the acting secretary Tafadzwa Mupariwa. He said:
<blockquote>
There is a surge in drug and alcohol abuse in the National Prosecution Authority as some prosecutors and support staff are losing their minds. Some are blaming it on other factors such as evil spirits.
</blockquote>
Mupariwa urged heads of stations and supervisors to report at the earliest possible time any suspected cases of drug and alcohol abuse so that remedial action can be taken. | <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/npa-frets-over-drug-alcohol-abuse-in-its-ranks/">Chronicle</a>

"Some Prosecutors Losing Their Minds Due To Drug Abuse"

We are sharing this message that we came across on social media as we know many in the Pindula community will find it useful. Our thanks to the person/organisation that compiled this list.
In case you have a son/daughter friend /relative who has a problem with drugs, here is a list of those who provide counselling and rehabilitation services for patients battling drug addiction:
<ol>
<li>Highlands Halfway Home +2638644210999</li>
<li>Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre +263273790238</li>
<li>Serenity Mind Centre +263716825245</li>
<li>Mandipa Hope Rehabilitation +263776911153</li>
<li>Tirivanhu Rehabilitation +263773593014</li>
<li>Mubatirapamwe Trust +263772379751</li>
<li>Beatrice Rehabilitation Centre, Harare</li>
<li>Tariro Rehabilitation Centre, Harare</li>
<li>For Youths By Youths, Harare &amp; Mash West +263775462468 +263773238941</li>
</ol>
<h2>The following public psychiatric institutions also offer help in fighting drug addiction:</h2>
<ol>
<li>Sally Mugabe Psychiatric Unit (Harare)</li>
<li>Parirenyatwa Annex Psychiatric Unit (Harare)</li>
<li>Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital (Bulawayo)</li>
<li>Ngomahuru Hospital and Halfway House (Masvingo).</li>
</ol>
If you know other organisations not listed here please help by sharing in the comments section below.

Drug Abuse in Zimbabwe: List Of Places Offering Counselling and Rehabilitation

Police in Harare are carrying out a crime awareness campaign against drug abuse among youths as part of authorities’ efforts to eradicate the vice.
A team of officers led by the Officer Commanding Harare Suburban District, Chief Superintendent Raudzi Tshuma, on Friday visited some parts of the city and conducted campaigns. Said Chief Supt Tshuma:
<blockquote>
This campaign bears testimony to our commitment to stopping drug and substance abuse.
Our determination as ZRP Harare Suburban is to strengthen the cooperation of all stakeholders towards the achievement of a society free of drug and substance abuse.
Let me hasten to say we have various legislations on drug use control which shows the highest level of commitment to taming the vice.
</blockquote>
The laws include the Dangerous Drugs Act and the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act.
Chief Supt Tshuma noted that drug abuse among the youth was a growing public health and security problem in Zimbabwe, particularly in Harare. She said:
<blockquote>
Drug abuse has continued to claim the precious lives of our people, and that includes able-bodied men and women with the potential of steering national development.
Of concern now, is also the initiation of children as young as nine into drug and substance abuse resulting in juvenile suicides.
We have had reports of kids taking jolly juice, and fermenting cereals such as Cerevita corn and wheat, Movite and Cornflakes into illegal, highly intoxicating brews.
As if it is not enough, boys and girls are also abusing sex-enhancing medicines.
</blockquote>
Some common drugs abused by youths include mutoriro and cough syrups, while the abuse of traditional drugs such as illegal marijuana or mbanje is still rampant.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/police-embark-on-drug-awareness-campaign/">The Herald</a>

Police In Harare Embark On Drug Awareness Campaign

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed an inter-ministerial task force to find solutions to drug abuse, an issue that is affecting many youths in the country.
Many drug abusers blame the economic and humanitarian crisis in the country.
Speaking at the official opening of the new Judicial Services Commission (JSC) Chinhoyi Courts building Friday, Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>
Drug abuse, especially among youths, has become a scourge in the country which has potential to damage society. I would like to see the JSC deal decisively with this scourge, and my government has appointed an inter-ministerial task force to find solutions to this problem.
</blockquote>
He added that other state institutions such as police and other government departments should join forces in ending the societal problem.

<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2017/06/01/mono-mukundu-reveals-engaged-prostitution-drug-abuse-suffered-hands-ivy-kombos-husband-new-book/">Mono Mukundu Speaks On Engaging Prostitutes, Drug Abuse, Abuse By Ivy Kombo’s Husband </a></li>
</ul>
JSC plans to establish a High Court seat following the completion of the state-of-the-art composite building that has taken the government 20 years to finish.
The establishment of a seat of the superior court at Chinhoyi would bring the number of High Court seats outside Harare to four.
Others are at Bulawayo, Mutare, and Masvingo.
The new complex in Chinhoyi has eight courtrooms, holding cells, over 40 offices, a library, a canteen, and a kitchen.
Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi said the government prioritised citizens’ easy access to justice which is one of the pillars of the National Development Strategy (NDS 1), an economic blueprint that runs until 2025.
The new project, which was part of the government’s 100-day cycle, was wholly funded by the government and is expected to ease judicial officers and other ancillary staff’s accommodation woes.
Construction contracted to a Chinese firm, Haulong, with help from the Public Works Ministry, began in 2001 and had been stalled due to lack of funding.
Works re-started early 2018 at the inception of Mnangagwa’s administration.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/ed-cajoles-judiciary-to-severely-punish-drug-lords/">NewZimbabwe</a>

Mnangagwa Appoints Task Force To Deal With Drug Abuse

Concerned parents have implored the government to ban the sale of jolly juice in the country as the beverage is now being used as a drug.
Reports indicate that children as young as six years old are feared to be drug addicts following the discovery of the prevalence of abuse of powdered fruit drink.
Kids from Grade One up to Grade Six in Victoria Falls and Bulawayo have been snorting the powders in the same manner that drug addicts sniff cocaine.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has launched an investigation into the issue.
A sachet of jolly juice costs between ZWL$15 and ZWL$$20 depending on whether one is buying from a tuckshop or a vendor, which means they are easily available.
John Matumbura of Victoria Falls told Chronicle that his 12-year-old son was almost involved in the drug abuse. He said:
<blockquote>I heard some kids talking about it and when I spoke to my son, he told me how some children in schools were doing it.
I alerted other parents on WhatsApp and I was shocked by the number that testified that many children knew about this.
What we then discovered is that children sometimes disappear from home and this could be the time they sniff drugs.
Kids say they just enjoy sniffing. As parents we should monitor our children and know every move, they make so that we minimise drug abuse.
We know our children’s behaviour and it is easy to pick when they start acting funny. We need good communication between parents, teachers and children so that we break the cycle of drug abuse.
Government should help us by banning this product.</blockquote>
Matabeleland North Provincial Education Director Jabulani Mpofu said investigations are underway. He said:
<blockquote>We are working on the issue as we are aware that this is affecting children. We have spoken to heads of the affected schools and engaged quite a number of children and other stakeholders.
We want to embark on an awareness campaign to highlight this issue. We are not looking at targeting any kid because we don’t want them to be affected psychologically.</blockquote>
A tuckshop operator Bernard Sihwaba Ncube of Mkhosana told the publication that powdered fruit juices were among products that sell fast. He said:
<blockquote>This is one of the fast-moving products but all the same, we are not happy with what is happening. The challenge is that the powders are readily available and kids can buy them anywhere.
Some parents also buy them because they can’t afford other juices for their children so they rely on the cheaper powders when packing their school lunchboxes. This will make it difficult to control the situation.</blockquote>
Police fear traces of dangerous drugs are being added to the powders thereby slowly turning children into addicts.
A few years ago, police had to contend with Vuzu parties in Bulawayo and while the vice seems to have been eradicated, jolly juice has opened another front in the war against juvenile delinquency.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/jolly-juice-is-your-child-safe/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chronicle</a></h4>

Parents Call For The Banning Of Jolly Juice

The permanent secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Nick Mangwana has called for the declaration of war on drug abuse which he said was affecting many youths. <a href="https://twitter.com/nickmangwana/status/1366258351621963776">He tweeted:</a>
<blockquote>We have to declare a war on drugs. They are frying our young people’s brains. The amount of money some of these young people are spending on these immoral ventures debunks the “jobless” argument. Other young people are into farming, others into mining let’s help the lost ones.</blockquote>
He attached a video of a young man who was explaining how one drug he called “Tururu works.” Watch the video below.
<div class="wp-video" style="width: 490px;">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" controls="controls" height="270" id="video-197931-1" preload="metadata" width="490"><source src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/TURURU-DRUG-ABUSE-MBARE.mp4?_=1" type="video/mp4"/><a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/TURURU-DRUG-ABUSE-MBARE.mp4">https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/TURURU-DRUG-ABUSE-MBARE.mp4</a></video></div>
Drug abuse has been rampant especially in ghettos with involved individuals blaming poverty. They argue that the drugs have the effect of diverting them from their abject poverty.
Many young men and women have unfortunately died due to drug abuse.

WATCH: Drugs Frying Young People's Brains - Mangwana

A rise in the number of school dropouts, high rate of teenage pregnancy and rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among the youths are some of the problems brought by the discovery of gold deposits in Mudzi district, Mashonaland East province.
This was exposed during a recent Mashonaland East family planning and adolescent sexual reproductive health (ASHR) meeting that was held in Marondera.
Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) Mashonaland East monitoring and evaluation officer, David Murwira said that Mudzi rural was leading in school dropouts.
He called for the empowerment of the rural girl to eradicate the rising scourge. Said Murwira:
<blockquote>It seems as if the modern girl child is well informed about her rights and what to do when faced with certain situations compared to her rural counterpart.
As a result, stakeholder participation is vital to empower the rural girl not to drop out of school due to early marriage or pregnancy.</blockquote>
An education official bemoaned the rise in drug abuse and prostitution in public schools in Marondera. He said:
<blockquote>Drug abuse and prostitution in schools are a cause for concern; a school headmaster from a certain school here in Marondera recently wrote a letter to the provincial education director (PED) seeking permission to expel more than 20 pupils at his school who were in the habit of openly abusing drugs at the school.
The drugs were supplied by well-known drug dealers from the school’s vicinity who are not arrested even if reported to the law enforcement agents.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/gold-rich-mudzi-battles-with-child-marriages-school-drop-outs-stis/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Rise In School Dropouts Worry Mudzi Authorities

In a keynote address during the pass out of soldiers after the completion of a troop commander’s course at 1 Air Defence Regiment in Redcliff last Friday, Brigadier-General Godffrey Mupita warned soldiers against indiscipline.
He urged soldiers against drug abuse and irresponsible sexual behaviours. Said Brigadier- General Mupita:
<blockquote>Remember always that discipline is the cornerstone of soldiering. The ZNA continues to uphold zero tolerance to any forms of indiscipline hence it promptly and decisively deal with any form of misbehaviour which tarnish its image and reputation. I therefore urge you to desist from disgraceful social habits like consumption or abuse of drugs, gold panning, irresponsible sexual behaviours among other social ills.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/well-not-tolerate-indiscipline-zna/">Herald</a>

Soldiers Warned Against Taking Drugs, Gold Panning

An Advanced Level student at Nyameni High in Marondera, missed one of his final exams after he ate a cake mixed with marijuana.
Sources interviewed by NewsDay said that the student was rushed to Marondera Provincial Hospital after he became unconscious because of the cake. The cake was baked by the student’s 22 year old friend who is a student at Kushinga-Phikelela Technical College.
After the fainting incident the student’s sister inquired what the student had eaten which resulted in him revealing that he had been given a cake mixed with marijuana by a friend. The sister reported the matter to the police leading to the arrest of the Kushinga-Phikelela student. Police recovered a half-filled flour packet and a pan. NewsDay’s efforts to get a comment from  Mashonaland East province acting police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Tendai Mwanza were fruitless.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2016/11/09/student-misses-exam-eating-weed-cake/">NewsDay</a>

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