Home Affairs Minister Warns of Synthetic Drug Proliferation in Zambia

Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu, has issued a stern warning about the increasing threat of synthetic drugs in Zambia, driven by the rise of internet and cryptocurrency use. 

Speaking at the Fifth Ordinary Session of the Specialised Technical Committee on Health, Population, Nutrition, and Drug Control in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mr Mwiimbu expressed deep concern over the challenges posed by drug trafficking and substance abuse, particularly among the youth.

The Minister underscored that drug trafficking not only endangers national security but also hampers progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

To counter this growing menace, Mr Mwiimbu called for substantial technical assistance to establish a National Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Zambia and to strengthen capacity-building efforts for rehabilitation services across the country.

Mr Mwiimbu highlighted the critical role that a National Drug Rehabilitation Centre would play in improving recovery rates, enhancing rehabilitation outcomes, and ensuring the successful reintegration of individuals into society. 

He also stressed the importance of stronger collaboration among African Union member states and non-state actors in developing evidence-based interventions to tackle the escalating drug problem.

The Minister praised the African Union for selecting Lusaka as the host city for the upcoming High-Level Session on Substance Use and Related Mental Health Disorders, scheduled for November 2023.

This session is expected to bring together experts and policymakers to address the pressing issue of substance use and its impact on mental health.

Mr Mwiimbu reaffirmed Zambia’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its international drug policy obligations and ensuring that all commitments are met. 

He called on the international community to support Zambia’s efforts in combating the proliferation of synthetic drugs and in strengthening its drug rehabilitation and prevention programmes.

This is in a  statement issued by Mrs. Inutu Mupango Mwanza, First Secretary-Press & Tourism at the Zambia Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.