Lesotho: Women raising children addicted to alcohol and drugs

The article examines the growing challenge faced by mothers in Lesotho who are raising children addicted to alcohol and drugs. It describes substance abuse as a rapidly escalating national problem driven by unemployment, economic hardship, weak law enforcement, social pressures and changing lifestyles, affecting both rural and urban communities as well as schools.

The story highlights extreme cases linked to substance abuse, including violent crime, family breakdown and deaths, and focuses on women who are left to care for addicted children and partners. It profiles the formation of a mothers’ organization that provides mutual support, advocates for prevention, and seeks treatment options in a country with limited rehabilitation facilities.

Law enforcement officials, counsellors and security institutions outline current responses, including policing operations, awareness campaigns, and youth rehabilitation programs. The article underscores the urgent need for coordinated prevention, stronger enforcement, parental involvement and community action to address alcohol and drug abuse and protect families and young people in Lesotho.

LINK TO PUBLISHED STORY 

https://www.lena.gov.ls/raising-addicts-fast-growing-challenge-for-mothers/

Written by Makhaba Masekonyela. This article, first published by Lesotho News Agency, is part of the Media Parity Capacity Building Programme and republished as part of the programme series.