Government to tackle drug abuse with rehab centre expansions

Mbekezeli Ncube

In a bid to combat the growing scourge of drug and substance abuse, the government has launched an ambitious plan to convert abandoned buildings into rehabilitation centers.

Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Paul Nyoni, revealed that the government has partnered with the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) to identify suitable structures for refurbishment. Nyoni said that they have identified a few buildings to be turned to rehabilitation centres and they are yet to search for more, working hand in glove with BCC.

One of Ingutsheni Hospital’s 20-bed ward is one of the places to be converted into a rehabilitation centre, with a facility in Emakhandeni also set to be renovated as a drop-in center for outpatients. Another one in Lobengula will receive resources to handle increased caseload.

“We are working with BCC to identify more buildings in target areas for conversion to rehab facilities,” Nyoni stated.

The strategic location of the Ingutsheni Hospital premises will provide discharged patients with counseling before returning home, addressing the high demand for assistance with drug and substance abuse.

“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to addressing the growing concern of drug and substance abuse in Zimbabwe,” Nyoni emphasized.

Emakhandeni-Luveve constituency MP, Descent Bajila welcomed the move saying there is also need for other ministries to join the fight.

“This is a very welcome move, the government and city council need to work together and also we need to get more ministries coming together in the whole of society as we fight drugs and as we try to rescue our young people from the challenges caused by drug addiction and drug misuse,” said Bajila.

By repurposing existing facilities and expanding rehabilitation services, the government aims to provide vital support and treatment to those affected.

Melokuhle Ncube, a Gwabalanda based resident said in as much as it’s a wise decision to have numerous rehabilitation centres, the law has to take its course and arrest suppliers.

“It would be wise to establish more drug rehab centres, especially established on the outskirts of the city in order to avoid situations where by the patients escape from the facility to look for drugs, but also the government can work hand in glove with the police to stop drug supply,” he said.

Another local, Nkosiphile Zondo shared that it’s a good thing that the government is involved in curbing what he refers to as a “drug pandemic” as reports of drug abuse are widespread and at unprecedented levels.

“It clarifies that the government has a good goal to help the youth who are struggling with addiction and showing care by providing treatment options,” said Zondo.

In June this year, the government launched a Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024 to 2030) committed to support multi-stakeholder engagements and actions against drug and substance abuse, through targeted, collaborative interventions. The plan includes seven critical pillars aimed at disrupting the production, distribution, and supply of drugs; preventing drug use; raising awareness; advocating for policy changes; and mobilising resources for drug and substance abuse interventions.