The World Drug Report released in June this year indicates that 296 million people were hooked to illicit drugs and substance abuse as of 2021. An increase of 23 percent in the past 10 years.
Last year Botswana Police Service recorded 1 232 drug related cases, in which 1 784 people were arrested and 116 of these were minors aged between 10 and 19 years.
The staggering figures were divulged by Minister of defence and security, Thomas Mmusi, during the Anti – Drug Campaign in Mahalapye this Wednesday. Mmusi said these figures were disturbing especially that more of the young people are caught in the web of illicit drug trafficking and abuse.
“Only 27 percent of illicit drugs and substance users are on treatment for drug use. They are below 25 years of age and are found in Africa, these are disturbing statistics about Africa and it’s the youth,” highlighted Mmusi.
The Minister called on all stakeholders to join forces in fighting the war against illicit drug and substance abuse in the country.
“The magnitude of the problem in the country is a menace. As government we have put in place stiffer policies and laws to curb drug trafficking. However, we need families, communities and society at large to join in fighting this scourge.”
Since Monday, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has been sensitising and educating residents of Mahalapye on the effects and social ills brought about by illicit drugs and substance abuse.
The Agency visited six junior secondary schools in Mahalapye including Madiba Senior Secondary school. During the tour of the schools DEA capacitated Guidance and Counselling teachers and Parents and Teachers Associations. The agency also sensitised students on the adverse effects of illicit drug use. From these interactions, students highlighted peer pressure, family upbringing, the need for a sense of belonging and urge to look cool as some of the reasons they end up using illicit drugs. Students also urged government to tighten laws and penalties against drug dealers.
