Gender and Community
GWANDA – Five people have died from drug and substance abuse in Matabeleland South Province between January and August this year, with nearly 1,600 individuals arrested during the same period, officials revealed at a provincial resource mobilisation launch.
The stark figures were announced by Matabeleland South provincial social welfare officer, Mr Criswell Nyakudya, during the programme held in Gwanda last Thursday. He detailed that 68 drug users received treatment and rehabilitation through the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
“Of those, five passed away due to drug and substance abuse,” Mr Nyakudya stated.
“Three of those who died were from Gwanda, while Matobo and Beitbridge districts had one death each.”
The provincial welfare officer provided further alarming statistics on law enforcement efforts, noting,
“During the period under review, a total 1,556 individuals were arrested for drug abuse-related cases. Of these, 1,269 are males and 287 are females.”
He identified the most common substances in the province as marijuana, crystal meth, Benylin cough syrup, Broncleer cough syrup, Astrapain, and unregistered medicines.
The Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, officially launched the fundraising initiative, stating that the statistics are a clear indication of the scale of the challenge. He framed the event as a direct response to a national call to action.
“This launch is a response to His Excellency, the President Cde ED Mnangagwa’s clarion call on all citizens and institutions to intensify the fight against drug and substance abuse,” Minister Nguluvhe said.
“As Matabeleland South, it is prudent that we do our part to participate and support this plan.”
The province aims to raise US$280,000 to fund its fight against the scourge. The minister highlighted critical gaps in the province’s capacity to handle the crisis, notably the lack of a dedicated rehabilitation centre.
“The province does not have a functional stand-alone rehabilitation centre and relies on Ingutsheni Central Hospital in Bulawayo,” he explained.
While an old TB Clinic in Jahunda, Gwanda, has been identified for conversion, Minister Nguluvhe noted that “the identified centre needs renovations.”
He also pointed to a severe shortage of operational resources for law enforcement, stating,
“The province has no equipment to conduct instant preliminary drug tests and scanners, especially at our border posts. Fuel for mobility in conducting drug and substance abuse raids and patrols by the police is also not available.”
The funds raised will be channeled towards establishing rehabilitation centres, creating recreational facilities, and intensifying awareness campaigns, as the province rallies to combat a devastating public health challenge.
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