HARARE, April 23 (Xinhua) -- The Zimbabwean government has taken a significant step toward addressing the growing problem of drug and substance abuse in the country by moving closer to enacting legislation for the establishment of a national drug elimination agency.

During its regular meeting on Tuesday, the Cabinet approved principles for the enactment of the Zimbabwe Drug and Substance Agency Bill, which paves the way for the establishment of an additional security service and a specialized drug and substance elimination agency.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere told a media briefing after the meeting that the agency will be responsible for the enforcement of laws related to drug and substance trafficking, use, and abuse, as well as coordinating the efforts of other support services.

"The nation is advised that the prevalence of drug and substance abuse has become a global issue and Zimbabwe has not been spared. Drug and substance abuse has become a threat to economic development, social harmony, health and wellbeing, public order and security," Muswere said.

He said since January this year, the government had arrested 677 drug suppliers and 5,471 end-users, with a total of 106 illegal drug and substance trading bases destroyed in various parts of the country.

The government was accelerating awareness campaigns on drug and substance abuse targeting adults, youth and children, Muswere said. Furthermore, cheap loans have been made available to youths across the country to engage in income-generating projects, aimed at reducing their involvement in drug abuse.

Meanwhile, the minister said the Cabinet had approved the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan that will run from 2024-2030, which outlines a comprehensive strategic approach to address the escalating threat of drug and substance abuse to public health, economic growth, national security and social stability in the country.

To further combat the scourge of drug abuse, the government will expedite the decentralization of the Drug and Narcotics Department. The Cabinet has also approved the review of the fine structure to ensure that drug suppliers are prosecuted through the courts and not through spot fines.

"Establishment of outpatient psycho-social support centers and parenting groups countrywide as well as the purchase of psychotropic medicines and food provisions for rehabilitation centers will be expedited," Muswere said. Enditem

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