Alida Mazungwi, District Youth Officer (DYO), said because of high unemploy- ment rates most youths resort to alcohol and drug abuse.

In the rural settings, alcohol abuse is the major problem because we have cheap beers being sold.”

She said at district level they have Drug Fight, which is a member of the District Executive Committee (DEC) and MAGGA that help in the fight against drug and substance abuse.

“We conduct periodical meetings and awareness campaigns among the youths and in each awareness campaign we talk about the effects of indulging in drug and substance abuse on their health and education..

“We also have orientation sessions with the gate keepers. When I say gate keepers I mean chiefs, business partners and the Anankungwis,” she said.