Ellison Tjirera on the plague of alcohol and drug abuse amongst the youth

[PODCAST]

Right now, across Namibia—from Katima Mulilo to Mariental, Oshakati, and beyond—there’s a troubling wave affecting our communities, especially our youth. Alcohol and drug abuse is on the rise, particularly in informal settlements and schools. We’ve heard disturbing accounts of children as young as Grade 4 involved in the use and even sale of substances—some influenced by their own parents, others left to navigate poverty and hopelessness on their own.

Which leads us to the big question: What are the alternatives for our children and young people? What spaces, programs, or community-driven ideas can help redirect their focus—towards learning, creativity, and healing?

To help unpack this, we’re joined by sociologist Ellison Tjirera who’s spent years studying youth behavior, community dynamics, and the root causes behind these crises.

We explored the bigger picture—what options currently exist and what more needs to be done to ensure that our children in even the most underserved towns have a safe and enriching environment to grow up in.