By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Provincial Drugs and Substance Abuse Taskforce for Matabeleland South today visited Beitbridge to assess local efforts in combating the growing surge of drug and substance abuse that continues to affect communities across the district.
Addressing stakeholders during the meeting, Amanda Maphosa from the Provincial Secretariat on Drugs and Substance Abuse said the tour was aimed at reviewing ongoing initiatives and strengthening collaboration among key players in the fight against the scourge.
The engagement brought together members of the Taskforce Committee operating under the Supply Reduction, Demand Reduction, Treatment and Rehabilitation, Media and Communication, and Resource Mobilization pillars. Each pillar presented its specific duties and outlined progress made so far.
Under the Demand Reduction Pillar, Moyo Stanley, Programs Officer for the Ministry of Youth in Beitbridge, announced plans to establish a youth interaction centre in the district. The proposed site, formerly known as Machembere Bar at the Bus Terminus (the Rank), has been earmarked for conversion into a safe space for young people.
“Our goal is to give youth meaningful alternatives through vocational courses, sports, and recreational activities that can keep them engaged and away from drug abuse,” Stanley said.
He added that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) had already been signed with the Municipality of Beitbridge, but funding remains a major challenge in equipping and rehabilitating the site.
Concerns about the strain on health services were also raised by the Sister-in-Charge at Beitbridge District Hospital, who said the facility is struggling to cope with cases linked to the surge in drug use.
She reported that nine patients were admitted during the first quarter of the year, some of whom displayed violent behaviour.
“We lack adequate medication, trained mental health social workers, and security staff to handle violent cases. There is also urgent need for proper rehabilitation space and counselling services to manage the rising number of patients,” she said.
The meeting concluded with stakeholders agreeing on the need for stronger communication and coordination across all pillars to ensure concrete progress in implementing Beitbridge’s action plan against the rising tide of drug and substance abuse.