By Ndumiso Tshuma
Residents of Makokoba have expressed deep concern over the alarming rise of drug and substance abuse in their community, saying the problem has worsened in recent years and is now affecting a growing number of young people.
A local resident, Lucky Zihunodi, said the situation is far more dangerous than in the past. He stated that in the past people only used to smoke marijuana and drink alcohol, but the situation has now become more dangerous.
“A long time ago, people were smoking weed and drinking alcohol, which was already bad. Now the drugs are worse. We have children who can’t even function and have become zombies,” Zihunondi said.
“We know who sells the drugs, they live right across from us. We ask the police not to accept bribes from drug dealers because these drugs are destroying our children’s lives. We are scared that if this continues, we will lose a whole generation of young people in Makokoba.”
This issue was discussed during a community stakeholder engagement meeting held at Stanley Hall in Makokoba, Bulawayo on Thursday.
Another resident, Mpumelelo Matwasa, said the crisis goes beyond individual choices, warning that the entire society is at risk.
“Our children are no longer going to school because of drugs. Some spend the whole day on the streets without direction. It is painful as parents to see your own child turn into someone you do not even recognise,” Matwasa said.
A member of the Drum and Peace Committee in Makokoba, Lewis Ndlovu, linked drug abuse to crime and violence, saying such led to an increase in robberies.
“Drug abuse is destroying peace in our community. We have seen an increase in thefts, robberies, and violence because of these substances. Young people are no longer safe, and families are living in fear. We need all stakeholders, including the police, health workers, schools, and community leaders, to come together and fight this problem head-on,” Ndlovu said.
Chairman of Makokoba’s Development Committee, Lunga Zhwaki, also warned that drugs are not only affecting youth but also hindering community development.
“A society cannot develop when its youth are trapped in drugs and hopelessness. We cannot build industries, businesses, or families when the young generation is lost to drugs. If we do not act now, Makokoba risks becoming a community without a future,” Zhwaki said.