2nd Post Cabinet Media Briefing - February 2025 Government Updates Nation on Food Security, Drug Abuse, and International Relations By Takasununguka Ziki 18 February, 2025 | Zim Global Media News 🗞️ FOLLOW OUR CHANNEL: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCpLzu2f3EBYPSgI93M Harare – In the second Post Cabinet Media Briefing of 2025, Government has provided crucial updates on various national initiatives, including the ongoing Food Deficit Mitigation Programme, responses to drug and substance abuse, and international cooperation agreements among others. The briefing, highlighted the government's commitment to addressing pressing issues affecting the nation. The Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Honourable Edgar Moyo, presented an update on the Food Deficit Mitigation Programme. The government has been proactive in addressing food insecurity, with over 90% of the total grain distributed to vulnerable households. The third phase of food distribution, which commenced on November 1, 2024, concluded on January 31, 2025, successfully assisting deserving families across the nation. Currently, the government is in the midst of the fourth phase of food distribution, which began on February 1 and will run until March 31, 2025. As part of this initiative, the government will conduct its First Round Crop Assessment, with early indications suggesting a positive outlook for the upcoming harvest. This proactive approach aims to ensure that food security remains a top priority for the government, particularly in light of the challenges faced by many households. Cabinet also reviewed the National Drug and Substance Abuse Response, covering the period from September 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025. Presented by the Minister of Skills Audit and Development, Honourable Paul Mavima, the report highlighted significant strides made in combating drug abuse across the country. During the review period, law enforcement destroyed 79 illegal drug bases, resulting in the arrest of 9,527 individuals, including 616 suppliers and 8,911 end users. Notably, international collaboration led to the arrest of three individuals in Zambia, who were found in possession of 23 kilograms of dagga. Furthermore, the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe conducted 117 inspections, leading to the closure of five non-compliant premises. The government has also prioritized education and awareness, with over 155,000 youths benefiting from vocational training programs. Drug and substance abuse education has been integrated into school curricula, reaching more than 7 million learners. Various ministries, including the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Ministry of Sport, have engaged the public through awareness campaigns, reaching hundreds of thousands with drug abuse prevention messages. In a bid to enhance rehabilitation efforts, three new centers have been established in Victoria Falls, Harare, and Kwekwe. The government continues to encourage private sector investment in rehabilitation initiatives, emphasizing the need for community support in addressing substance abuse. In a move to foster regional collaboration, the cabinet approved Memoranda of Understanding between Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and South Africa concerning youth affairs. The agreements aim to enhance cooperation in various areas, including life skills training, entrepreneurship development, and health promotion programs. Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Legislation, emphasized the importance of these agreements in uplifting the lives of young people and disadvantaged communities. The initiatives are designed to reduce poverty, promote sustainable nation-building, and decrease youth criminal activities, ultimately contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous region. Cabinet also approved the ratification of the SADC Inter-State Protocol on the Transfer of Sentenced Offenders, a move that demonstrates Zimbabwe's commitment to international cooperation and adherence to global norms. The protocol facilitates the transfer of sentenced offenders to serve their remaining sentences in their home countries, thereby strengthening diplomatic relations within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). This decision, signed by the President His Excellency Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa on behalf of the government in August 2019, showcases Zimbabwe's dedication to enhancing its legal frameworks and improving its collaboration with neighboring countries on justice matters. The cabinet received a report on Zimbabwe's participation in the Africa Prosperity Dialogues held in Accra, Ghana, from January 30 to February 1, 2025. The event brought together representatives from 46 African countries, including heads of state and business leaders, to discuss trade, economic integration, and infrastructure development. Key discussions focused on fostering intra-Africa trade, industrialization, and innovative financial strategies to address economic challenges. Zimbabwe's involvement in this dialogue underscores its commitment to regional collaboration and economic development. In addition to regional initiatives, the cabinet reviewed the President's participation in the African Union’s 38th Ordinary Session held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from February 15 to 16, 2025. The session, themed "Justice for Africans and People of African Descent, Through Reparations," saw the President engage with other leaders on pressing continental issues, including peace and security in the region. Notably, President Mnangagwa's address emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address the conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), advocating for inclusive dialogue and humanitarian assistance. The post cabinet media briefing reflects Zimbabwe's proactive approach to addressing food security, combating drug abuse, and enhancing international cooperation. With a focus on youth empowerment and regional collaboration, the government aims to build a more resilient and prosperous nation. As these initiatives unfold, the commitment of various ministries and stakeholders will be vital in achieving the desired outcomes for the people of Zimbabwe. ——————————————— Zim Global Media News 🗞️ an Afrocentric Voice https://www.zimglobalmedia.co.zw ———————————————