Staff Reporter
Mount Darwin North legislator Labbany Munemo has called on the Government to declare drug and substance abuse a national disaster, warning that the problem is threatening the wellbeing and future of young people.
Presenting a statement on a matter of national importance in the National Assembly on 5 November 2026, Munemo expressed concern over the growing presence of drugs in communities, schools and other public spaces.
He identified substances including crystal methamphetamine, guka, dombo, cocaine, broncleer and marijuana among those affecting young people.
“Our youth are dying neither from war nor accidents but from drugs and substance abuse,” Munemo told Parliament.
He described the situation as a growing social concern, saying families were increasingly affected by the consequences of substance abuse.
The legislator argued that addressing the problem required more than police enforcement, calling for coordinated action involving schools, churches, parents and communities.
“Drug abuse is no longer just an issue for the police alone. It is an education issue, a church issue, a family and community issue,” he said.
Munemo urged the Government to declare drug abuse a national disaster and strengthen efforts to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse.
Among the measures he proposed were tougher action against drug dealers, stronger border controls, drug education in schools and communities, and the creation of employment and recreational opportunities for young people.
He also called for greater involvement of traditional leaders, churches and parents in preventing substance abuse.
His appeal comes amid continuing public concern about the effects of drug and substance abuse on young people, families and community safety.
However, the proposed national disaster declaration was a recommendation made by the legislator. Parliament did not declare drug abuse a national disaster during the debate.
The parliamentary contribution also did not provide verified statistics on the number of people affected, drug-related deaths or the scale of substance abuse nationally.
For communities in Bulawayo and the three Matabeleland provinces, the issue warrants further investigation into the availability of rehabilitation services, prevention programmes and support for affected families.
Matebeleland Pulse
