The Zimbabwe Civil Liberties and Drug Network (ZCLDN) is urging journalists to use sensitive language when reporting on people who use and inject drugs.
As an organization focused on harm reduction, drug policy reform, and HIV prevention among drug users, ZCLDN aims to combat the stigma and discrimination that can hinder recovery and access to health services.
ZCLDN Programs Officer, Knowledge Mupembe, highlighted the need for person-first language in media and official documents, noting that stigmatizing terms can dehumanize those seeking help.
“We see people who use drugs as individuals in need of healthcare services; drug use is a health issue. As we work to help people recover and access HIV and other health services, we need to foster an environment that encourages access without stigma and discrimination,” Mupembe said.
He added that criminalizing drug use has pushed many into hidden communities where they are marginalized and unable to access essential services.
“We advocate for using person-centered language, which recognizes the individual before their drug use. When helping someone recover, let’s avoid stigmatizing terms and instead use language that encourages service access and recovery. This approach can foster a healthier, more supportive community,” he said.
Sharing her personal experience, Sophia Bizha explained how she turned to drugs after the loss of her husband in 2010.
“When my husband passed away, I felt my life had ended. People promised to help me and my child, but nothing came of it. After isolating myself for weeks, I started drinking and eventually tried marijuana, which felt good at the time,” she recalled.
As she continued meeting new people, Bizha was introduced to more dangerous drugs, leading her down a path of addiction that strained her finances and relationships.
“I was no longer buying food, and eventually, my child was taken from me. That destroyed me, and I sank further into drug abuse,” she said. With support from ZCLDN, Bizha is now on the road to recovery and has joined a group where young people share their experiences.
Another reformed drug user, Mehluli Ncube, recounted his own path to addiction, which began after he impregnated his partner at 20. Raised in a strict, religious family, Ncube felt ashamed and unsupported.
“I thought my church would help, but instead, they blamed and shamed me, calling me an embarrassment. Eventually, I turned to drinking to cope,” he said. From alcohol, he moved to marijuana and soon reached a point where he couldn’t function without it.
Ncube, too, is now in recovery, working to regain control of his life.
