Matebeleland has critical shortage of rehab centres

A critical shortage of drug rehabilitation centers in Matebeleland South and Matabeleland North has left residents with limited options for addressing escalating drug and substance abuse, according to the Parliamentary Thematic Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The committee's report, based on verification visits to facilities across the country, underscores the dire state of rehabilitation services in these provinces, where residents are forced to seek help in Bulawayo due to the absence of local resources.

During visits to facilities such as Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital, Engutsheni Central Hospital, Gweru Hospital, and Chipadze Rehabilitation Centre, the committee observed substandard conditions and insufficient resources. Proposed centers, including Mzilikazi Circumcision Centre, Gwanda Hospital, and St. Luke's Hospital, were also found lacking in readiness to address drug rehabilitation needs.

"All senators were heartbroken by the conditions we saw, especially at Ngomahuru Hospital," said Senator Nonhlanhla Mlotshwa, seconding the motion in the Senate. "Children abusing drugs were placed alongside those with mental health challenges, and the facility lacked basic provisions like food. It was truly painful."

Mlotshwa emphasized the need for a dedicated rehabilitation center in Matabeleland South, particularly in Gwanda, to serve the border town communities where drug abuse is prevalent.

"For parents in remote areas like Bulilima, traveling to Gwanda is already a challenge. It is not practical for the entire province to rely on a single under-resourced hospital," she said.

In Matabeleland North, St. Luke's Hospital, initially a COVID-19 center, was identified as the primary option for rehabilitation but remains ill-equipped to handle substance abuse cases.

The report highlighted an alarming trend of children abusing unconventional substances, such as diapers, Mazoe, and Cerevita, which legislators linked to unemployment and lack of guidance.

Senator Tambudzani Mohadi echoed the call for urgent reforms, citing the acute shortage of rehabilitation facilities and trained staff in both provinces.

"Gwanda Hospital, the only option in Matabeleland South, lacks critical resources, including bedding, laundry services, and psychotherapeutic drugs like Chlorpromazine and Diazepam," Mohadi said.
Rehabilitation Centers as a Priority

The committee's findings point to systemic neglect, with hospitals such as Ngomahuru operating more as detention centers due to the lack of therapeutic interventions and proper medication. Patients are often released back into the community after insufficient treatment, posing risks to public safety and staff.

Mlotshwa called for the 2025 national budget to prioritize the establishment of fully equipped rehabilitation centers in Mzilikazi, St. Luke's, Gwanda, and other district hospitals.

"As parents and legislators, we have a duty to ensure our children receive the care they need. We must influence the budget to address this crisis and support our vulnerable communities," she urged.

With drug and substance abuse on the rise, particularly among the youth, the committee's report serves as a wake-up call for immediate action to strengthen Zimbabwe's healthcare infrastructure and protect its future generations.