A serious problem is brewing in Epworth where young people hit by a government and Covid 19 induced economic meltdown have turned to drugs for reprieve.
Most of the ghetto youths in Epworth who have been depending on vending for income, have been hit hard by Covid 19 induced lockdowns which were made worse by government led demolitions of illegal structures.
The demolitions left them with no source of income and deep in poverty leaving them with a false option of turning to dangerous drugs.
A parent who has been nursing a drug addict in his home, said there was need for jobs if the young people are to be saved“Maybe if they can find something for them to do it will be better, there is need for income generating projects for the young people in Epworth, so that they can be occupied and to earn a living rather than abusing drugs,” he said.
The youths most of whom have turned into Zombie’s are taking crystal meth also known as guka/mutoriro in the streets.
The drug is now one of the most sought after and appears to be the coolest pastime.
Youths in Epworth argued that it is better for them to use crystal meth(guka/mutoriro) because they do not have better things to do.
Those who take it say after taking crystal meth they do not feel hungry, they can lose sleep and they will not be reasoning, although this comes with negative effects like high crime rates, ill-health and unavoidable deaths.
By Melody Gwanunga