By Flata Kavinga
Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, has warned that drug and substance abuse poses a serious threat to national security, urging communities to unite in fighting the scourge.
Speaking at the Drug and Substance Abuse Sports Festival held at Mbizo Stadium in Kwekwe on Saturday, Ncube commended former Member of Parliament for Mbizo Constituency, Vongaishe Mupereri, and his family for sponsoring the event to the tune of US$30,000. The festival brought together youths, churches, and community leaders in an effort to raise awareness through sport.
“We thank Comrade Mupereri for this initiative at a time when our country is witnessing drug and substance abuse as a threat to national security,” Ncube said. “This program will deter our students and parents — some of whom are also drug abusers — from engaging in this destructive behavior.”
The Minister noted that drug abuse, especially among the youth, has devastating health effects and contributes to social decay. He urged churches and community organizations to take an active role in preaching against drug use.
Ncube also commended the City of Kwekwe for constructing a state-of-the-art drug and substance abuse rehabilitation centre in Amaveni, which is now operational. “We commend the Officer Commanding Police Kwekwe District, Chief Superintendent Aison Chapeta, and his team for managing to eradicate 54 drug bases in Kwekwe. Only one base remains in Mbizo 9 and it will be dealt with urgently,” he added.
The Minister applauded President Emmerson Mnangagwa for setting up national and provincial committees to combat drug and substance abuse, as well as First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa for complementing government efforts through initiatives such as the establishment of a rehabilitation centre in Mbare.
He called for unity among traditional leaders, churches, and law enforcement agencies in tackling the problem, saying drug abuse cuts across all sections of society.
The event concluded with sports competitions and prize presentations, where winners received cash and sports uniforms courtesy of the Mupereri family.
“This initiative by Comrade Mupereri should spread throughout the province to ensure that we teach our children and citizens about the dangers of drug and substance abuse,” Ncube said.
