Zimbabwe plans mandatory drug testing in schools

Published: 6 hours ago

The government is considering amending the law to introduce mandatory drug testing for learners and employees and empower inspections in schools, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has revealed.

Speaking at the National Prayer Day at Mutare Showgrounds last Friday, Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri, who also chairs the National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, said the move aims to curb rampant drug abuse, which has increasingly affected youths, schoolchildren, and working-class citizens. The minister likened the proposed testing regime to the Covid-19 testing and vaccination measures previously implemented.

"The influx of hard drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, and crystal meth, is a serious concern, and Government is considering law amendments to allow inspections in schools and mandatory testing for learners and employees," Muchinguri-Kashiri said.
"Those caught trafficking drugs will face severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison. Special courts are being established to impose harsh sentences and deter drug traffickers."

She revealed that health personnel will be trained to conduct tests using blood, saliva, and hair samples, and self-testing kits will soon be available to allow parents to monitor their children's drug use at home. Rehabilitated individuals will receive vocational training to aid reintegration into society.

The minister attributed the rise in substance abuse to factors such as unemployment, poverty, peer influence, porous borders, and the Covid-19 pandemic, noting that even schoolchildren as young as eight have been admitted to rehabilitation centres.

Muchinguri-Kashiri also linked the drug influx to foreign interference, claiming that some nations are deliberately flooding Zimbabwe with narcotics to destabilize the country and undermine the local currency. She emphasized the importance of family and community involvement, as well as the role of churches and traditional leaders in promoting moral values and national unity.

In closing, Muchinguri-Kashiri reaffirmed Zanu-PF's political agenda, highlighting Resolution Number One, which seeks to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term beyond 2030, and praised progress in food security, road rehabilitation, mining productivity, and youth and women empowerment.
- Manica Post

Tags: Schools,