Community initiative to combat drug abuse in Marlborough

06 Dec, 2024 - 00:12 0 Views
Community initiative to combat drug abuse in Marlborough Drug and substance abuse campaign

Peter Tanyanyiwa Suburban Reporter

IN RESPONSE to the escalating drug and substance abuse crisis in Marlborough, local leaders have launched a pivotal training programme aimed at equipping over 200 volunteers with essential skills to identify drug users and the locations where drugs are sold.

Recent statistics highlight the urgency of this initiative, revealing that one in three youths in Harare has been exposed to drug misuse, with a staggering 60 percent increase in drug abuse cases reported last year.

Common substances users in Harare communities are abusing include crystal meth, cough syrups, and cannabis, which have had devastating effects on families and social cohesion in neighbourhoods.

Ward 41 Councillor Kudzai Kadzombe, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, the St Canisius Catholic Church parish, and the Pamumvuri organization, spearheaded this comprehensive training programme. The initiative aims to empower community members to take proactive steps in addressing the drug crisis.

Cllr Kadzombe emphasised the importance of community involvement: “We cannot afford to ignore the impact of drug abuse on our families and neighbourhoods. This training is a crucial step in empowering our community to take action.”

The training programme, held over two days, was developed in collaboration with UNICEF and Quality Rights International. It attracted a diverse group of volunteers who dedicated their time to learn about drug identification and support strategies for affected families.

Pamumvuri founder, Mr Jacob Shamuyarira, expressed his satisfaction with the overwhelming response from the community.

He noted that the majority of the participants successfully completed the training and form the foundation for a strong support network that will make a difference in Marlborough.

“With more than 65 percent of our participants successfully receiving their certificates, we are building a strong support network that can make a real difference in our community,” he said.

Recognising that the effects of drug misuse extend beyond individual users, the initiative also focuses on providing support for families.

Cllr Kadzombe highlighted this interconnectedness: “We must remember that behind every statistic is a family in distress. Our goal is to create a support structure that addresses the needs of both individuals and their loved ones.”

The ongoing efforts in Marlborough align with the country’s policies aimed at combating drug and substance abuse, including the National Drug Control Master Plan, which emphasises prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

The Government has also implemented community-based initiatives and partnerships to enhance awareness and provide support for affected individuals and families.

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