Samuel Mbewe
The abuse of alcohol and tobacco products among youth in Lusaka, especially in the central business district, has become a growing concern for the Zambia Consumer Association (ZACA). With the easy availability of substances like Kachasu, brandy, Sunkho, Kubel, and cigarettes, the situation is worsening, and it’s crucial that both the public and local authorities take swift action.
ZACA’s Executive Secretary, Juba Sakala, has sounded the alarm over the alarming rates at which minors and young people are gaining access to harmful substances. Despite the fact that there are laws in place to regulate the sale of alcohol and tobacco products, these products are still being sold indiscriminately—often to those who are underage.
This situation is not just an isolated problem, but a clear violation of the law. If left unaddressed, it could lead to even more severe consequences that will affect not only the health and wellbeing of young people but also the fabric of the community as a whole.
Local authorities play a critical role in enforcing laws and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the public, especially the vulnerable members of society, such as children and teenagers. Mr. Sakala has called for stronger enforcement efforts from these authorities, urging them to be more proactive in monitoring and addressing this issue. While enforcement may present challenges, the tools are already in place—Zambia has adequate laws that could address the sale and distribution of alcohol and tobacco to minors. What is needed now is action.
The implications of the rising abuse of alcohol and tobacco products among youth cannot be overstated. This behavior can lead to long-term health problems, addiction, and even a lifetime of struggles with substance abuse. More importantly, it deprives young people of the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe and healthy environment. By failing to tackle this issue, we are allowing dangerous habits to take root, affecting generations to come.
We all have a role to play in protecting the future of Zambia. Local authorities must take responsibility for ensuring that existing regulations are strictly enforced. The public must raise their voices and hold those responsible for the distribution of these harmful products accountable. And young people themselves must understand the dangers of alcohol and tobacco abuse and make choices that promote their long-term health and success.
By coming together and tackling this issue head-on, we can create a safer, healthier environment for our youth. Let’s not wait for the situation to worsen before we act. Now is the time to stand up for our children and protect them from the dangers of substance abuse. It is only by enforcing the laws already in place and working collaboratively that we can reverse this troubling trend and build a brighter future for Zambia.
