By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Government of Zimbabwe has introduced a new institution to fight drug abuse following the gazetting of the National Drug and Substance Abuse Control and Enforcement Agency Bill [H.B. 12, 2025] on 10 October 2025.
According to the Office of the Attorney General, the new agency will be responsible for enforcing drug laws and helping people affected by substance abuse.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the Office of the Attorney General said:
“The National Drug and Substance Abuse Control and Enforcement Agency Bill [H.B. 12, 2025], gazetted on 10 October 2025, highlights the significant move the Government is undertaking to combat drug and substance abuse.”
The agency will have two divisions.
The Enforcement Division will work with the police and other security services to dismantle drug trafficking and distribution networks. The Social Services Intervention Division will focus on rehabilitation and reintegration of people recovering from drug and substance abuse.
According to the Attorney General’s Office,
“Section 4(1)(b) of the Bill empowers the Agency, in coordination with the Police Services and other Security Services, to dismantle drug trafficking and distribution networks by enforcing laws governing controlled substances.”
The Attorney General’s Office stated that the agency is empowered to coordinate with the Police and Security Services to enforce laws on controlled substances.
The Bill also provides for social support through partnerships with health and social service providers.
The government’s National Drug and Substance Abuse Policy of 2023 identified drug abuse as a public health and security problem linked to youth unemployment, gender-based violence, and urban crime.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) welcomed the proposed law, noting:
“The establishment of this agency will have a significant impact on Zimbabwe’s fight against drug abuse. It will address the social and economic consequences, including family breakdowns, loss of education opportunities, and crime.”
Citizens are encouraged to follow developments on the bill through the Attorney General’s official website.
Citizens can follow updates on the Bill through the Attorney General’s official website.