Mmegi

Let’s stand against the menace of ‘CAT’

The alarming rise of methcathinone, commonly known as Cat, in our communities demands urgent and concerted action from all stakeholders. This potent drug has swiftly become one of Botswana’s fastest-growing industries, infiltrating every corner of the country and preying on people of all ages, particularly the youth. It’s a menace that cannot be ignored any longer.

Methcathinone’s addictive grip is tightening, and its consequences are devastating. Lives are being ruined, families torn apart, and futures dashed by its destructive power. The drug’s allure knows no bounds, with various methods of ingestion making it accessible to users of all preferences.

Whether it’s snorted, smoked, injected, or taken orally, the outcome is the same: a path of ruin and despair. It is time for action. The government, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Botswana Police Service, parents, educators, and the wider community must come together to combat this epidemic. First and foremost, the government must enact stringent laws and allocate resources to tackle the production, distribution, and sale of methcathinone. We need robust legislation that targets both suppliers and users, with severe penalties for those who profit from others’ suffering.

Editor's Comment
Depression is real; let's take care of our mental health

It is not uncommon in this part of the world for parents to actually punish their children when they show signs of depression associating it with issues of indiscipline, and as a result, the poor child will be lashed or given some kind of punishment. We have had many suicide cases in the country and sadly some of the cases included children and young adults. We need to start looking into issues of mental health with the seriousness it...

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