Combating drug and substance abuse among youths. The case study of Chitungwiza district, ward 14. · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Mhlanga, Leonard J.

Title

Combating drug and substance abuse among youths. The case study of Chitungwiza district, ward 14.

Abstract

This dissertation explores the interconnected causes of drug and substance abuse among youths in Chitungwiza Ward 14, Zimbabwe, and investigates ways to control, mitigate, and implement measures to address the effects on the youths, the community, and the country as a whole. Drug and substance abuse is a critical global issue that encompasses the hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including illicit drugs and the use of alcohol and tobacco. It negatively affects the mental and physical development of young people, with significant health, social, and economic consequences.
Globally, the rise in drug abuse among youths has birthed various problems, including increased risk of HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, and other infectious diseases through reckless behaviour. In Africa, the impact of drug and substance abuse among youths is amplified by a lack of facilities, efficient control measures, and weak policies. Zimbabwe has suffered similar negative impacts, such as links between drug abuse and crime, mental health problems, and the loss of social cohesion within communities. Disturbingly, the age of engagement in drug abuse is decreasing, with even children as young as ten years old reported to be abusing dangerous drugs and substances.
The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. In-depth interviews were conducted with 35 young drug and substance abuse victims, their families, community leaders, and government officials. Additionally, a survey was administered to 150 youths in Chitungwiza Ward 14 to gather broader data on the prevalence, patterns, and motivations behind drug and substance abuse.
The findings reveal that the primary drivers of youth drug and substance abuse in Chitungwiza include peer pressure, lack of parental guidance, poverty, and the availability of cheap and easily accessible substances. The study also highlights the significant impact of drug abuse on the mental and physical health of young people, as well as the wider social and economic consequences for the community.
Despite the Zimbabwean government's implementation of a zero-tolerance policy towards drug abuse, this approach has not been effective in controlling the surge in the number of youths involved in drug and substance abuse. The rates of youth drug abuse have continued to increase, and the zero-tolerance policy, which involves sentencing drug abusers, has not proven to be a successful deterrent measure.
The study suggests that policymakers should revisit the existing drug laws and consider a more rehabilitative strategy, which could include increased funding for evidence-based treatment and counselling programs. Additionally, the implementation of harsher penalties for drug handling individuals, especially those targeting and exploiting vulnerable youth, could be a complementary approach to address the supply-side of the problem.
The dissertation aims to provide valuable insights into the complex issue of youth drug and substance abuse in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe, and to inform the development of more effective policies and interventions to address this growing problem. The findings may have broader implications for addressing similar challenges in other African countries and contribute to the ongoing global efforts to combat drug abuse among young people.

Date

MAY 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

drug and substance

Supervisor

Dr Maponga