Harare, (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the fight against drug and substance abuse a national priority, saying the scourge threatens the very soul and future of Zimbabwe.

Speaking at a high-level resource mobilization engagement in Harare on Friday, the President launched a vigorous campaign aimed at supporting a holistic, multi-sectoral response to drug abuse, particularly among the youth, warning that failure to act decisively could derail national development.

President Mnangagwa noted his administration had already established a National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, backed by seven thematic pillars including supply and demand reduction, treatment, legal reform, and public awareness.

“This is not a ‘feel good exercise. It is a fight for the soul and future of our nation, as embodied in our young people,” he said.

“Stiffer penalties should be imposed on offenders. The long arm of the law must do much more to bring culprits to justice, including through exposing and shaming cartels,” he said.

On the rehabilitation front, President Mnangagwa announced that 67 centres across the country have been identified for conversion into treatment and support facilities, with a ZIG 865 million allocation already made in the 2025 National Budget.

He called on local authorities to expedite the repurposing of these facilities while challenging the private sector and citizens to join in the effort.

“I challenge our people, individuals and corporates to give life and hope to survivors of drug and substance abuse by supporting the capacitation of these rehabilitation centres,” he said, expressing gratitude to stakeholders who had already pledged to refurbish some facilities.

President Mnangagwa underlined the need for behavioural change and communication, urging churches, traditional leaders, parents, and communities to be at the forefront of awareness and prevention efforts, adding the the anti-drug messaging should be relatable, especially to young people most at risk.

“We are well able to boldly address the challenges faced by our beloved motherland. Through cooperation and collaboration as one united people, this drug and substance abuse challenge is surmountable,” he said.

He urged all Zimbabweans to rally behind the national cause, noting that achieving the national vision to become an upper middle class society by 2030 hinges on safeguarding the nation’s human capital.

“Let us exercise positive parenting skills in the upbringing of our children. Together, we will attain a drug-free Zimbabwe,” he said.

New Ziana