The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has urged traditional leaders in Nalolo District to join forces in combating drug abuse.
Speaking at a sensitisation training held at Muoyo Primary school resource centre, DEC Western Province Deputy Regional Commander, Mwendaendi Silumesi expressed concern over the threat drug trafficking and substance abuse pose to cultural and traditional values.
The training comes after Western Province recorded incidents where people have lost their lives after consuming alcohol containing methylated spirit.
Mr Silumesi noted that the Commission has observed a disturbing trend in eroding cultural and traditional values, while foreign cultural beliefs are being imposed on Zambian society.
He said that this would adversely affect the country’s moral fibre if left unchecked.
Mr Silumesi disclosed that the Commission has identified various stakeholders in communities, including traditional leaders, to assist in curbing drug trafficking and substance abuse to maintain the country’s customs and values.
“We want to work with everyone so that we curb this vice which seems to impact negatively on our community and this leads to family disruption and increased poverty levels,” he pointed out.
Mr Silumesi acknowledged that the Commission cannot win the fight alone and therefore, needs support from traditional leaders and the community.
“It is a fact that members of the Barotse Royal Establishment, as parents, have seen these vices in their areas of jurisdiction,” he said.
Lwambi Chiefdom, Natamoyo-Prince, Kabuku Akashi commended DEC for the initiative, expressing concern over the alarming rate of drug abuse among children as young as 14 years old.
Prince Akashi noted that the engagement of the Barotse Royal Establishment is timely, given the establishment’s existing sensitisation activities on the effects of drug abuse.
“This is a big fight because these issues are happening hence, it is good that you have decided to work with us in overcoming it,” he noted.
Induna Anaba-Nakambeye Sibeso attributed the high rate of drug abuse to a lack of employment opportunities for the youths, emphasising the need to encourage constructive activities.
“The major contributing factor to the moral decay is the lack of jobs for our youths, so we encourage them to engage in constructive activities,” Induna Anaba said.
The Drug Enforcement Commission’s initiative highlights the collaborative efforts that are being made to address substance abuse and improve community well-being in Western Province.
