IN the bustling neighbourhoods of Mabvuku, Tafara and Caledonia, a new breed of social hotspots has emerged.
Once the domain of adults, places like The Hunter, Halampulo, Gazebo and Kas Kas have become vibrant hubs where young people gather, seeking connection and excitement.
However, these seemingly lively venues are also breeding grounds for peril, as adolescents experiment with alcohol, drugs and risky behaviours such as abortion, often oblivious to the health threats that lurk in the shadows.
“Instead of being highly restricted areas for the young people, these places have become even more accessible and most youths are now indulging themselves at the expense of their lives,” said popular pastor Caleb Chikomo, living in Old Tafara.
Government has admitted that the country is facing a growing problem of substance abuse especially among unemployed youth.
Researchers have attributed the increasing drug and substance abuse among young people, who make up about 61% of the country’s population of over 15 million, to waning parental guidance, poverty and idleness, broken homes, social influence and stress among other issues.
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Experts note that to a greater extent the ability to meet their reproductive health and development needs is critically important and will determine communities’ success or failure.
According to a study carried out by Unicef earlier in 2024, young people in the country are the most vulnerable section of the population, especially those from poor or unstable backgrounds who may be tempted to see drugs as an escape from life’s troubles.
In June 2024, government launched the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030) and called for stiffer penalties against drug peddlers.
“It's high time, the recently launched drug and substance abuse strategy, was fully implemented and enforced by providing comprehensive programmes such as community workshops, peer support groups and outreach programmes designed to equip youths with the knowledge and skills they need,” said ward 9 councillor, Prince Mutebuka in a recent interview.
The thrill of the hotspots
For many youths, adolescence is a pivotal period filled with exploration, learning, and self-discovery. Unfortunately, the allure of these social spaces is leading them down a treacherous path.
“As they navigate the waters of newfound freedom, many young people find themselves engaging in activities that pose significant risks to their physical and mental well-being,” Chikomo points out.
The statistics speak
The consequences of this lifestyle are stark. Globally, alcohol and drug abuse are responsible for approximately three million deaths annually, with young people disproportionately affected.
In Zimbabwe, the situation is equally alarming. A recent report from the World Health Organisation (WHO) highlights that over 5 000 deaths related to alcohol consumption occur each year among individuals aged 15-19.
Plan International also observed that adolescent pregnancy remained a major contributor to maternal and child mortality.
“Complications related to pregnancy and childbirth are the leading cause of death among youths aged 15-19 globally. Pregnant girls and adolescents also face health risks and complications due to their immature bodies. Babies born to younger mothers are also at greater risk,” Plan International said.
The Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCoZ) believes that government’s current social governance framework is overly restrictive and fails to protect the health, well-being and human rights of adolescents and other young people.
“We urge the government to reconsider its stance on abortion and to work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for adolescents,” noted a recent WCoZ statement.
When it comes to reproductive health, the statistics are equally concerning.
According to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), approximately 28% of maternal deaths occur among women under 18, compared to 18% among those aged 20-29.
The country also sees around 120 000 abortions performed annually, with teenagers constituting about 30% of those seeking the procedure.
Alarmingly, 40% of women hospitalized for abortion-related complications are under 20 years old.
Young mothers account for a staggering 10% of the world’s births, a figure that underscores the pressing need for comprehensive sexual health education.
The silent crisis of youth suicide
The issue extends beyond substance abuse and reproductive health.
Suicide rates among young people in Zimbabwe have risen sharply, mirroring a global trend.
According to the Zimbabwe Suicide Prevention Strategy, the suicide rate among youths aged 15-24 has increased by 25% over the past decade.
Globally, suicide is now the second leading cause of death among young people, with WHO estimating 200 000 annual fatalities in this age group.
The fear of open dialogue
Despite the alarming statistics, many adults hesitate to engage young people in conversations about sex and health.
A pervasive belief exists that providing accurate information encourages experimentation.
“This fear often leads to a lack of support, leaving youths to navigate their challenges alone. The irony is that open, honest and inclusive discussions about sex can empower young people to make informed choices, reducing the risks associated with their behaviours,” said Philemon Simwaba, Disability, HIV/Aids Trust, executive director, in a recent interview.
Local and global initiatives
On the positive side, there are communities, health organisations and youth-led initiatives actively addressing these issues.
Locally, organisations like My Age Zimbabwe, the Youth Empowerment Network and Zimbabwe Young Positives are working tirelessly to educate young people on the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of sexual health.
Globally, initiatives such as UNFPA’s Youth-Friendly Services and The Global Fund for Women are championing the cause by promoting sexual and reproductive health rights among young people.
“There are programmes that emphasise the importance of accessible information and support networks, creating safe spaces for youth to discuss their concerns without judgment,” if only we search for and promote them, said Rex Chikoti, a parent living in Old Tafara.
As the sun sets over the vibrant but decrepit streets of Mabvuku, Tafara and Caledonia, it is clear that the stakes are high.
The potential for positive social interaction exists, but so do the risks.
The vibrant hotspots in Mabvuku, Tafara and Caledonia hold the potential for connection and growth, but they also pose significant risks.
By addressing the issues of alcohol, substance and drug abuse, reproductive health and mental well-being through inclusive education and support, these spaces can be transformed into safe havens where young people thrive.
There is need to break the silence and equip youth with the tools they need to navigate their lives with confidence and care.
Only then can communities hope to see a brighter, healthier future for the rising generation.