Drug-dependent persons worry State

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 13:36:51 +0000

By JACK MAPAPAYI

GOVERNMENT is concerned with the increase in the number of persons dependent on drugs, says North Western Province minister Richard Kapita.

Mr Kapita said that the figures were alarming hence the need to reflect on them and make deliberate efforts by channelling the time, energy and resources to address the situation.

Speaking during the commemoration of the World Anti-Drug Day, Mr Kapita said that from January to date, more than 258 people had been arrested for trafficking and cultivation of cannabis in the province.

He said drug production and trafficking usurped valuable time and efforts which could be invested in economic development of Zambia.

“Drug abuse has been the cause of many social ills and same illegal activities cause the derailment of government efforts in poverty reduction and good governance,” Mr Kapita said.

He said government will do everything possible to ensure that the fight against substance abuse, drug trafficking and money laundering was ultimately won.

“However, the fight against these evil vices should not be the responsibility of government alone and in particular, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC),” he said.

He called business community and the private sector to willingly partner with government in controlling and preventing the occurrence of the vices.

“I am happy to note that other government wings such as the police and the judiciary have continued to join hands with the commission and complement each other’s efforts to achieve the desired goals,” he said.

Earlier, North Western Province drug enforcement commander Elizabeth Mumba called for concerted efforts in combating the problem of alcohol and drug abuse.

This year’s world Anti-Drug Day has been commemorated under the theme ‘’Listen First’’.