Malawi is being urged to strengthen the role of parents, schools and communities in tackling drug, substance and alcohol abuse among young people before the problem causes deeper social and health consequences.
The warning came during a youth open day at Lukarazi Secondary School in Nkhata Bay, where stakeholders pushed for stronger action from families, schools and communities to protect young people from substance abuse.
Reverend Father Hermes Paononga, a lecturer at St. John of God University in Mzuzu, said parents must take a more active role in their children’s physical and emotional development.
He said closer parental involvement can help families detect warning signs early and intervene before substance use develops into serious problems.
Paononga urged parents to maintain open communication with their children and provide the guidance, care and moral support needed to help them navigate social and emotional pressures.
Psychosocial counsellor Amos Chikuni of St. John of God University identified peer pressure, social media influence, easy access to drugs and difficult family environments as some of the factors pushing young people towards substance abuse.
Chikuni said the consequences can include mental health challenges, memory problems and strained family relationships, making early counselling and support essential.
Senior Chief Thula called for parents, schools, communities and health professionals to work together to create safe spaces where young people can discuss mental health and other challenges.
Thula Youth Network chairperson Alick Zepo Msanja said the open day was aimed at connecting young people with experts while encouraging honest conversations on issues affecting their lives.
He said collective action is needed to shield Malawi’s young generation from the damaging effects of drug, substance and alcohol abuse.ptions if you want something that hits harder.
