Tsumkwe residents concerned over rising youth alcohol abuse - nbc

Описание: Residents of Tsumkwe say alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth, is increasing in the constituency. 

Community members say the absence of sports activities and youth-focused projects contributes to learners and out-of-school youth spending time at drinking places.

In Tsumkwe, recreational facilities and activities to keep youth occupied are near-nonexistent. 

Community members who spoke to NBC News say this has worsened over the years, resulting in the abuse of alcohol.

The absence of sports teams, youth clubs or projects leaves young people with limited options, resulting in many spending their time at bars.

Speaking to NBC News, Tsumkwe resident Conrad Bezuidenhout alleged that the youth office in the constituency does not offer them any programmes to keep them busy and away from destructive vices.

He said bars and shebeens, however, continue to open in Tsumkwe.

Another resident is Anna-Merie Aukumes, who has lived in Tsumkwe for over 40 years.

She said development is clear to see in other constituencies, but not at Tsumkwe. Here, the community still awaits the tarring of the road between Tsumkwe and Grootfontein. 

Aukumes wants to see more playgrounds and stalls to house youth businesses.

She said learners' and youths' futures are affected by alcohol abuse, with some ending up in fights or engaging in crime in the constituency.