Artiste initiates anti-drug campaign in Gwanda

Wandile Mloyi
Kwaito singer Proficience Kadder has launched an anti-drug awareness campaign together with her community in a bid to fight drug and substance abuse in Gwanda.

The youthful singer is using her position not only as a musician but as a concerned youth in the community of Gwanda under the “Kusile Majahunda” campaign motto.

In an interview, Kadder said drug abuse cases in Gwanda were rising hence the launch of the campaign that kicked off with a discussion group in order for people to find ways to deal with the issue of drugs.

“Speaking out is the first step and sharing testimonies and experiences about drug abuse will help the communities in realising how critical the issue is and how to stop the drug peddlers from causing harm,” said Kadder.

“Thus, in this campaign, people are enlightened on the types of drugs being used, the causes, effects and implementing activities that will keep the teenagers and the youth busy. We are also looking forward to working with police in Gwanda,” she added.

Councillor Thulani Moyo of Ward 7 in Gwanda said drugs had destroyed young people’s future and capabilities.

“Though some efforts are recognised and visible, the police and community have not done well. Police can be given tip-offs, yet they still fail. The community, on the other end, is too protective as some perpetrators are known.

“More blame is also on the landlords who give accommodation to known or suspected drug peddlers,”said Moyo.

Nobuhle Moyo, poet and a youth from Gwanda, said the causes of drug abuse among her peers included stress, peer pressure and curiosity.

“Unemployment , however, is a major reason behind youths taking drugs. I believe that if there was availability of jobs, youths would not be involved in drugs,”said Moyo.

Kadder said drugs had spread easily to the extent of having primary school pupils taking them.

“Even primary school kids are now sniffing jolly juice which is possibly a result of exposure to drug abuse,”said Kadder.