In a shocking revelation, traditional leaders in Matabeleland South have sounded the alarm over the rapid proliferation of drug abuse and illicit activities in rural business centers. The once-peaceful communities are now being infiltrated by mushrooming shebeens and unregulated retail shops that operate with impunity, peddling illicit brews and dangerous substances to unsuspecting villagers.

Villagers from Mtshazu and surrounding areas have expressed frustration at the growing threat posed by non-compliant businesses. These establishments, often operating without licenses and beyond legally stipulated hours, have become conduits for drug abuse and crime. The situation has gotten so out of hand that parents are now worried about the safety of their children.

Shebeens, in particular, have become breeding grounds for illicit activities. These establishments, often playing loud music throughout the night, are accused of selling drugs to minors and contributing to the rise in crime and strange behavior. The impact on the community is palpable, with villagers lamenting the erosion of moral values and the destruction of their youth.

Chief Matema and Chief Sebasa, who are spearheading the “Not in My Village” campaign, are calling on rural district councils and law enforcement agencies to take decisive action. They want stricter enforcement of business regulations and stiffer penalties for offenders. The traditional leaders are determined to protect their communities, particularly the youth, from the scourge of drug abuse.

 

Beyond the fight against drug abuse, the traditional leaders are adopting a holistic approach to addressing other social challenges. They are working to restore cultural values, combat HIV, child sexual exploitation, teenage pregnancies, and school dropouts. Through grassroots mobilization, education, and enforcement of community values, the chiefs are reaffirming their role as custodians of societal ethics and rural development.

 

The road ahead will be tough, but the traditional leaders are resolute. They know that an intoxicated village cannot thrive, and they are willing to fight this menace with everything they have. Will their efforts pay off, or will the scourge of drug abuse continue to ravage rural communities?

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