Increase in mental health Dldisorders linked to drug use in Mozambique

Around 30,000 people suffering from mental disorders caused by drug use have been treated across the country in various health facilities. The data, released this Tuesday, is raising concerns among authorities involved in the prevention and fight against drug trafficking and consumption in Mozambique.

The information was made public by the Director of the Central Office for Drug Prevention and Combating, Filomena Citxonzo, during the opening ceremony of the institution’s national strategic planning meeting, taking place in the city of Lichinga.

According to Citxonzo, the increase in the number of patients receiving treatment is partly the result of intensified awareness campaigns and the promotion of support and rehabilitation services for drug users within health facilities. She believes that improved access to information and greater openness among families to seek help have contributed to more cases being diagnosed and monitored.

Despite the rise in the number of cases treated in health units, the official stated that last year there was a reduction in the number of national and foreign citizens arrested for involvement in drug-related crimes in the country. Authorities believe this may reflect strengthened preventive actions and improved coordination among defense and security forces.

In turn, the Secretary of State in Niassa Province, Silva Livone, urged institutions involved in drug prevention and control to implement concrete and sustainable actions to curb drug use and its social consequences. He advocated for stronger coordination between the health, education, justice sectors, and civil society in order to reduce the impact of drugs on families and communities.

The national meeting of the Central and Provincial Offices for Drug Prevention and Combating, taking place over two days in Lichinga, brings together representatives at national and provincial levels. The meeting aims to reflect on ongoing actions and define new strategies to mitigate the effects of drug use and trafficking in Mozambique. (Ma Mataka)