06 Mar 2016

The Assistant Minister of Education and Skills Development, Moiseraele Goya, says alcohol, drug and substance abuse are emerging challenges.

Speaking during launch of the anti-drug abuse campaign in on Friday, Goya explained that the sale and trafficking of illegal drugs had become a lucrative business and unfortunately young children were being targeted.

He said new challenges emerged as the nation grew, noting that they could not allow drugs to rule, ruin and reverse the gains made by government.

Goya said the destructive power and corrosive effects of the use of illicit drugs was a great concern.

Furthermore, he said the war against drug abuse could not be left in the hands of government alone, adding that the crusade requires collective response.

Goya said DJ Colastraw needed no introduction because he initiated to work with schools to reverse or eradicate the scourge of drug abuse by setting a good example in front of his peers and chose to dedicate his time to raise awareness on the dangerous of substance abuse.

He highlighted that his ministry is doing everything possible to provide a conducive learning environment because they hope that through the intervention, order and disciple will reign supreme in schools. 

Mr Goya stated that they also have the desire to achieve a drug free school environment, adding that efforts of this anti-drug crusade will pay dividends.

One of the DJs, Mr Timothy Sabuta, trading as DJ La Timmy said the aim of the campaign is to sensitise and mobilise young people in schools about the dangers of alcohol, substance and drug abuse.

He mentioned that the campaign is very important to young people as it facilitates leadership, life skills and provides mentorship.

DJ La Timmy said some of the community members have myths and misconceptions surrounding the entertainment industry, and believes that all artists and DJs are abusing alcohol and engaging in drugs.

For his part, Member of Parliament (MP) for Francistown East, Mr Buti Billy revealed that there were a lot of illegal drugs in Minestone location, but as a nation they were going to eradicate that.

Mr Billy said it was his responsibility to say out the naked truth about bad things happening in his society and rather not protect his votes.

He applauded government for opening centres which weregoing to fight alcohol, drug and substance abuse.

Mr Billy urged the mobile bars to stop selling alcohol after trading hours, adding that they encourage the use of alcohol, drugs and substance abuse. Ends