Police in Bulawayo have warned schoolchildren against engaging in risky behaviour during the August holiday period, including attending Vuzu parties, abusing drugs and alcohol, and taking part in violent confrontations.
Schools are expected to close on Thursday, 6 August, 2026 for the holiday break, with police saying they will intensify patrols and operations targeting activities that threaten the safety of learners and the public.
The warning comes as authorities raise concern over the evolving nature of the notorious ‘Vuzu’ party culture, with some youths now referring to the gatherings as “mjeje.”
Unlike traditional house parties, these gatherings are becoming increasingly difficult to detect because they do not attract the same level of attention.
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Instead of hosting parties at homes, some young people are hiring commuter omnibuses (kombis), where they allegedly consume alcohol and drugs while travelling to various destinations. Reports also indicate that some engage in risky sexual behaviour during these journeys.
Authorities say the mobile nature of these gatherings is a deliberate tactic to evade detection by parents, guardians and law enforcement agencies.
For years, Vuzu parties have gained notoriety in Bulawayo and other parts of Zimbabwe as unsupervised gatherings where alcohol and recreational drugs flowed freely, often accompanied by risky sexual behaviour among young people.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, said while the holidays are a time for relaxation, pupils should remain responsible and avoid activities that may expose them to harm.
“While we recognise the excitement and anticipation surrounding the holidays, we want to emphasise the potential dangers associated with certain activities, particularly in public spaces,” Insp. Msebele said.
“We are aware that some students may be tempted to engage in Vuzu parties. While it might seem like fun to them, it can lead to serious problems. We strongly warn students to refrain from participating in these events as these gatherings are associated with underage drinking, illegal activities and the risk of harm to participants and bystanders.”
Insp. Msebele urged communities to report planned or ongoing Vuzu parties, saying police had recently arrested suspected drug dealers in Bulawayo and recovered large quantities of illegal substances.
She also raised concern over fights involving pupils from rival schools and colleges, particularly in the city centre after classes.
“School children from different schools and some colleges frequent the CBD, meet after school in large numbers and engage in activities that pose serious risks to their safety and well-being, including drug peddling, alcohol abuse and physical altercations,” she said.
“We urge learners to immediately leave school premises after dismissal, avoid unnecessary gatherings, and refrain from carrying dangerous weapons such as screwdrivers, kitchen knives and machetes. We will be stopping and searching school children for weapons and we will be displacing them from gaming houses.”
She added that police would work with parents and neighbourhood watch committees to curb bullying, drug abuse and violence among learners.
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