To combat the growing problem of drug and substance abuse, the Bulawayo United Residents Association (BURA) in has adopted a systematic and structured approach to address the crisis.
BURA has established a dedicated committee to work with various stakeholders and community members to tackle drug and substance abuse effectively.
The committee comprises Morden Sibanda, Nompiti Kaira, Edward Nare, Busani Ncube, Teererai Mufumi, Ethel Ndiweni, Moredays Dlamini, Senzeni Moyo, Alphoncea Chirinda, and Mthulisi Moyo.
On Wednesday, BURA conducted an orientation workshop for the committee, equipping members with the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfil the program’s objectives.
Speaking to CITE during the workshop, program leader Mthulisi Mukhwa Moyo explained that the initiative aims to empower the committee to contribute meaningfully to the national goal of eradicating substance abuse.
“Substance abuse cannot be addressed through elitist approaches, where people meet in fancy venues to discuss it. This crisis needs grassroots-level action and sustainable solutions,” said Moyo.
He added that BURA has the capacity to engage diverse stakeholders, including churches, police, businesspeople, civil society organizations (CSOs), lawyers, and affected community members.
“If we do this effectively, we can achieve our goal. BURA will train more individuals within its structures to serve the noble cause of linking those affected by substance abuse with organizations and institutions that can help them,” Moyo stated.
The initiative also aims to establish alliances with stakeholders to support addicts in recovery and provide information to their families.
“Many people in communities need help but don’t know where to get it. BURA will bridge that gap through this program,” Moyo explained.
He highlighted long-term goals, such as creating partnerships with schools for guidance and counselling sessions and advocating for legislative frameworks and policies to deter drug abuse.
“We want to end this pandemic,” he emphasised.
BURA chairperson Winos Dube noted that the initiative, set to run throughout 2025, is a response to the president’s declaration of drug abuse as a national disaster.
“Our response will not only benefit Bulawayo but also the entire country. We hope other residents’ associations will join the effort, making this a nationwide campaign,” Dube said.
