Johnson Progress

The Minister of Youth Empowerment Development and Vocational Training, Tinoda Machakaire, has made startling claims that some senior officials within the ruling Zanu-PF party are involved in drug smuggling and selling.

Machakaire’s allegations come as the country grapples with a severe drug abuse problem, affecting many young people and leading to mental health issues.

Approximately 57% of Zimbabwe’s youth population abuses drugs, with the most commonly abused substances including cannabis, codeine, methamphetamine, and solvents.

A study found that 60% of psychiatry admissions were due to drug abuse, with 80% of those admitted being between 16 and 25 years old, including school children.

In 2020, Harare Central Psychiatric Hospital recorded a sharp increase in drug-related admissions, from 150 cases in 2019 to 825.

Machakaire emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue, targeting not only users but also suppliers and those who facilitate the trade.

“There are some people who are importing drugs to Zimbabwe, and some of them are leaders,” Machakaire said.

“The security centre should focus on that to avoid drug abuse.”

He highlighted idleness due to joblessness and peer pressure as significant factors contributing to substance abuse among young people.

Poverty and unemployment are significant factors contributing to drug abuse in Zimbabwe, with many young people turning to substance abuse as a coping mechanism for economic challenges and lack of opportunities.

Peer pressure and lack of awareness about the risks and consequences of drug abuse also play a significant role.

Easy access to illicit substances, facilitated by porous borders and corruption at border posts, has made it easier for drugs to enter the country.

The government has launched a National Drug Control Master Plan (2020-2025) to address the issue, focusing on supply reduction, demand reduction, harm reduction, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Law enforcement agencies have been instrumental in enforcing anti-drug laws, conducting raids, and arresting drug peddlers and addicts.

However, rehabilitation centers are struggling to cope with the rising demand, and many patients are being turned away due to limited capacity.

Machakaire’s comments highlight the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the issue of drug abuse in Zimbabwe.

By targeting suppliers and those who facilitate the trade, the government can take a significant step towards reducing the availability of illicit substances and preventing more young people from falling into the trap of addiction.

As the country battles to combat drug abuse, Machakaire’s allegations underscore the importance of holding accountable those involved in the illicit drug trade, regardless of their position or affiliation.