Rising Concern Over Mobile ‘Vuzu Parties’ as Stakeholders Call for Urgent Action

Providence Moyo

Concern is growing over the emergence of so-called mobile “Vuzu parties”, a trend in which teenagers are reportedly hiring kombis stocked with alcohol and drugs and using them as moving party venues.

The phenomenon, which has been highlighted in reports cited by the National AIDS Council (NAC), has raised fears about increasing levels of underage drinking, drug and substance abuse, risky sexual behaviour, and the potential spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among young people.

As reports of the trend continue to surface, child welfare advocates and youth development stakeholders are calling for a coordinated response involving parents, communities, government institutions, schools and youth-focused organisations to address the underlying factors driving the behaviour

In an interview with Matebeleland Pulse, Matabeleland Council for the Welfare of the Child Director Phumulani Mpofu said parents have a critical responsibility in guiding and monitoring their children, stressing the importance of discipline and cultural values in child upbringing.

“Parents need to pay close attention to their children and be more vigilant in terms of discipline. Families should adopt Afrocentric methods of discipline and child upbringing while moving away from theories that are not aligned with our cultural values and realities,” said Mpofu.

Mpofu said addressing drug and substance abuse among young people requires collective action and should not be left to families alone.

“The government and business sector should work together to restrict access to drugs by children through the enforcement of strict laws. There is also a need to effectively deal with drug suppliers operating within communities, as they are contributing to the destruction of young lives,” he said.

He also encouraged parents to expose children and young people to vocational skills development programmes that offer constructive alternatives and help prepare them for future economic opportunities.

Mpofu further underscored the importance of value- and culture-based education in shaping responsible citizens, citing programmes such as Eyamatshitshi, which promote cultural identity, positive values and life skills among young people.

Youth advocate Lungile Ndlovu said the emergence of mobile “Vuzu parties” highlights a broader need for communities to create safe and meaningful spaces for young people.

“While it is important to address the dangers associated with drug and substance abuse, we must also focus on creating positive alternatives for young people. Many youths are looking for spaces where they can socialise, express themselves and feel a sense of belonging,” said Ndlovu.

He said communities, schools, churches and youth organisations have an important role to play in ensuring that young people remain engaged in constructive activities that support personal growth and responsible decision-making.

“Young people need role models, guidance and access to opportunities that help them realise their potential. If we invest in youth empowerment programmes, cultural education and entrepreneurship initiatives, we can reduce the appeal of risky behaviours and build stronger communities,” he said.

Ndlovu also called for greater youth involvement in awareness campaigns aimed at combating drug and substance abuse, arguing that peer-led initiatives are often more effective in influencing positive behavioural change.

Stakeholders warn that if the trend continues unchecked, it could have significant implications for public health, community safety and youth development. They say efforts to curb the problem must address both the availability of drugs and the social conditions that may be pushing some young people towards risky behaviour.

They emphasised that a comprehensive response involving families, schools, community leaders, law enforcement agencies and policymakers will be essential in protecting young people and promoting healthier lifestyles across the country.

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