A PROMINENT African indigenous church has pledged to collaborate with the government in tackling the devastating problem of substance abuse in local communities.
Churches have emerged as critical partners in the national fight, offering both spiritual and social support in the face of a worsening crisis.
“The church recognizes the need for a collective effort to combat substance abuse and its far-reaching consequences, including health problems, violence, financial difficulties, and social issues,” Council of Churches in Africa (CCA) leader, Rocky Moyo, said.
The CCA is an African continental ecumenical and ecclesiastical body representing Apostolic, Zion and Pentecostal churches.
He said his church, the House of Divine Grace, has already started organising community outreach programs and educational initiatives to inform the public about the risks.
Moyo said there is a need for a collective effort to combat substance abuse.
He said the partnership will focus on promoting awareness about the dangers of drug and substance abuse, providing support to those affected, and advocating for effective treatment and rehabilitation programs.
Moyo said the initiative also aims to address the devastating impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole.
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Other objectives include counselling, mentorship, and peer-to-peer engagements.
The National Aids Council called for non-stigmatisation and promotion of drugs and substance abuse interventions and responses to ensure respect, dignity and rights of individuals.
As of last year in August, the Development Aid report stated that Zimbabwe is in the grip of a devastating drug abuse epidemic that has left thousands of young people addicted and vulnerable.
The report stated that the crisis has spiralled out of control, with streets and homeless shelters filled with individuals who are struggling with substance abuse.
