Midlands Minister Urges Anti-Drug Campaigns Targeting Tertiary Institutions

Gweru - The Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution has called on government Ministries, agencies and key stakeholders to urgently scale up anti-drug and substance abuse campaigns in tertiary institutions, warning that colleges and universities are increasingly vulnerable to the scourge.

Speaking during a provincial update on the implementation of the national drug strategy launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the Minister said while significant progress has been recorded at community level, more focused interventions are now required in higher learning institutions.

“We have made commendable strides in reaching communities, churches, and schools, but our tertiary institutions are not spared.

"There is an urgent need for ministries and stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns in colleges and universities to safeguard our students,” he said.

The Minister emphasized that the fight against drug and substance abuse must evolve to target youth in academic environments, where peer pressure and accessibility to illicit substances continue to pose serious risks.

He urged the Ministries of Higher and Tertiary Education, Health and Child Care, and Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, alongside civic organisations and the media, to collaborate in rolling out sustained educational programmes within campuses.

“These institutions house the future of our nation. If we do not act decisively, we risk losing a critical generation to drug abuse,” he warned.

The Midlands Province has already implemented a multi-sectoral approach guided by the national drug and substance abuse plan (2024–2030), with structures focusing on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration. However, the Minister noted that targeted campus-based interventions remain a gap that must be urgently addressed.

He further called on university administrations to partner with government and community organisations to establish counselling services, peer education programmes, and surveillance systems within institutions.

The appeal comes amid growing concern over drug use among youths, with authorities intensifying efforts to dismantle supply chains while expanding rehabilitation and awareness initiatives.

The Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to building a drug-free society in line with Vision 2030, stressing that no sector should be left behind in the fight against substance abuse.