KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES
DAILY HANSARD
OFFICIAL REPORT OF THE SENATE
6th Meeting – First Session
Eleventh Parliament
1st July, 2025
LENANE LA LITHO TSA NTLO EA MAHOSANA TSA PARAMENTEEA LESHOME LE MOTSO O MONG
| 1.Hon. Seeiso B. Seeiso | Principal Chief of Matsieng |
| 2. Hon. Joel A. Motšoene | Principal Chief of Leribe |
| 3.Hon. Sempe Gabasheane Masupha | Principal Chief of Ha ’Mamathe, Thupa-Kubu, Teya-Teyaneng le Jordan |
| 4.Hon. Mamolapo M. Q Majara | Principal Chief of Ha Majara |
| 5.Hon. Tumane Matela | Principal Chief of Makhoakhoeng |
| 6.Hon. Moeketsi Moletsane II | Principal Chief of Taung |
| 7.Hon. Lerotholi Mathealira Seeiso | Principal Chief of Mokhotlong |
| 8. Hon. Lerotholi L. Seeiso | Principal Chief of Likhoele |
| 9. Hon. Theko D. Bereng | Principal Chief of Phamong |
| 10.Hon. Mojela T. Makhaola | Principal Chief of Qacha’s Nek |
| 11.Hon. Seeiso S. H. Nkuebe | Principal Chief of Quthing |
| 12.Hon. Nthupi A. Bereng | Principal Chief of Rothe, Masite, Serooeng, Letšeng, Kolo Ha Mohlalefi le Thaba-Tseka Ha Ntaote |
| 13.Hon. K.L.K Khoabane | Principal Chief of Thaba-Bosiu |
| 14.Hon. Mitchel S. Maama | Principal Chief of Ha Maama |
| 15.Hon Moholobela M. Moholobela | Principal Chief of Matelile |
| 16.Hon. Bereng G. Seeiso Api | Principal Chief of Ha Ramabanta le Kubake |
| 17. Peete Lesaoana Peete | Principal Chief of Koeneng le Mapoteng |
| 18.Hon. ’Mako T.Mohale | Principal Chief of Tajane, Ha Ramoetsana le Ha Mohale |
| 19. Hon. Khoabane T. Mojela | Principal Chief of Tebang, Tšakholo le Ha Seleso |
| 20. Hon. Retšelisitsoe Mopeli | Principal Chief of Botha-Bothe |
| 21.Hon. Pontšo S. Mathealira | Principal Chief of Tsikoane, Peka le Kolbere |
| 22.Hon. Qeto Sekonyela | Principal Chief of Malingoaneng |
| 23.Hon.’Mawinnie Kanetsi | Senator |
| 24. Hon. Lebona Khoaele | Senator |
| 25. Hon. Thabiso Lebese | Senator |
| 26. Hon. ‘Maphakiso Lebona | Senator |
| 27. Hon. ’Mabataung Patricia Mokhathali | Senator |
| 28. Hon. Sehlooho Henry Monatsi | Senator |
| 29. Hon. ‘Makholu Moshoeshoe | Senator |
| 30. Hon. Neo Matjato Moteane | Senator |
| 31. Hon. Seabata Motsamai | Senator |
| 32. Hon. Richard Ramoeletsi | Senator |
| 33. Hon. Limpho Tau | Senator |
PARLIAMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
SENATE CHAMBER
Tuesday, 01st July, 2025
The House assembled at 10:30 a.m.
(MADAM PRESIDENT in the Chair)
PRAYER
The Chaplain led the House in Prayer
ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
MADAM PRESIDENT: Kea le lumelisa, Litho tse Khabane, Tulong ea Ntlo ea Senate kajeno.
Re na le litsebiso tse latelang:
- Kajeno re tla ts’ohla Tlhahiso ea Setho se Khabane eo le e bonang Lenaneng la rona la Tsamaiso ea kajeno.
- Kahare ho rona re na le baeti ba bohlokoa bao ke kopang ba tle ba eme ha ke ba bitsa, ‘me re ba amohele ka ho ba opela liatla. Bona ke;
- Little Prime Minister,
- Little Speaker of the National Assembly,
- Little Chief Justice Bohlokoa Seotsa,
- Little Mayor Tlhonolofatso Sebelo,
- Little Minister of Youth Thato Sello,
- Little Commander of Lesotho Defence Force Kabelo Phalatse,
- Little Commissioner of Police Sebolelo Lebatla,
- Little Commissioner of Correctional Service Lebohang Namanyane,
- Little Principal Khabane Ramoholi; and
- Little Chef Naleli Lets’ela.
[Clapping of hands!]
Next item, Madam Clerk!
PROCEEDINGS ON SUBSTANTIVE MOTIONS AND BILLS.
MOTION
Item 3 MOTION: CHILDREN MUST BE PROTECTED FROM DRUGS AND ALCOHOL ABUSE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES.
HON. SENATOR KARABELO MOTANYANE: Honourable Senators, I rise to move the Motion that children must be protected from alcohol and drug abuse in their communities. Children are the future of every nation and if we allow drugs and alcohol to harm us while we are still young what kind of future are we building?
I have few points, honourable President, to put before this honourable House to emphasise the need for children to be protected from these harmful substances:
- Drugs and alcohol destroy young lives. drugs and alcohol can ruin a child’s brain, health and future. Children who abuse drugs might drop out of school, get sick or get into a crime.
- Children are more vulnerable than adults, because we are still growing, learning and developing and our minds and bodies are not ready for harmful substances.
- Peer pressure and lack of awareness makes it easy for children to be trapped into trying drugs or alcohol.
- Families and communities suffer too. THAT IS, when children fall into addiction families suffer, parents cry, siblings get scared, communities are broken – and instead of being in safe playing grounds, neighbourhood become dangerous places where drugs are sold.
In conclusion, Honourable President and Honourable Senators, if we want strong leaders, healthy communities and bright future then we must protect children from alcohol and drug abuse. I therefore urge all of you to support this motion. I so move.
HON. SENATOR LEBOHANG SHEA: Honourable President, Honourable Members, I stand here proudly to second the Honourable Member’s Motion that children must be protected from alcohol and drugs in their communities.
I support this Motion because I believe every child in Lesotho deserves to grow in a safe, clean and happy place, not a place full of danger from drugs and alcohol, my reasons being;
- Children are the most affected at the abuse of alcohol and drugs. drugs and alcohol are also not just a problem for adults, but in some of our villages even children at the age of 12 years are found drinking or using drugs. Sometimes we find these in our schools or even sold at local stores or shops by people who do not care about children’s future.
- Second reason is, this abuse leads to problems when a child starts using drugs or drinking alcohol, becausethey start to skip school, fail tests or are even arrested and lose respect for their elders.
- In conclusion, Honourable President, I support this Motion because our lives are precious, our future matters. Let us all say no to drugs and alcohol and say yes to protection, hope and healthy living.
- Kea tlatsa, Mohlomphehi.
[Liatla]
Question proposed
MADAM PRESIDENT: Honourable Members, you can engage.
HON.SENATOR NTAOLENG LETHOKO: Thank you, Honourable Little President, for giving me this opportunity.
My name is Ntaoleng Lethoko from Mamoeketsi Community primary School.
Honourable President, Honourable Members I rise to support the Motion that children need to be protected from drugs and alcohol abuse in their communities.
Honourable Members, firstly, protecting children is a shared responsibility by Parents and teachers. Liable children pray together to say no to drugs and alcohol. We must educate each other, report dealers in drugs and create safe spaces for children to grow.
Secondly, go for action. We need more youth programs, sports and clubs to keep children active and away from drugs. Let us demand strict laws against people who sell drugs in our schools and our homes. Let us be the change of change not just for ourselves, Honourable Members, but for all the children in our country.
I so support, Mohlomphehi.
Drugs and alcohol are dangerous to children’s health and development; children should not be exposed to these harmful substances because their bones and minds are still growing. Examples; children who experience alcohol often suffer liver damage and lose interest in school. Exposure to drugs like dagga or crystal causes mental health problems, confusion and even brain damage and loss ofe support.
According to Children’s Protection and Health Act 2011 section 16 every child has a right to health and development and exposing them to these harmful substances is a violation of the Law. Exposure to drugs and alcohol causes poor performance. Children who see adults or young people using drugs may copy that behaviour and lose interest in school.
Children should not be exposed to these harmful substances either at home or on the way to school. Example, children skip school in order to drink or smoke with friends. Children drop out of school because their minds are affected by drugs.
Education Act 2010 says, every child has a right to education. Drugs take that right away when used by children and causes dropouts or poor learning.
Let us also remember that a child belongs to everyone; the whole community must put effort together to support and protect them from harmful things like drugs and alcohol.
In conclusion, in the 1990’s in Ireland teenage girls and boys were drinking and smoking a lot and the country acted fast. They introduced curfews, supported youth sport and music, banned alcohol ,and as a results teenage drinking dropped from 42% to 5% in under 20 years. This shows that we need to protect children from drugs and alcohol and protect their future.
I thank you.
HON. SENATOR NTEBALENG MOTSIBA: Honourable President and Honourable Members, I greet you all.
My name is Nteboheleng Motsiba from Mamoeketsi Community Primary School.
I rise to support the Motion tabled before us by the Honourable member of this House, I do not have much to say but just a few points to highlight the following;
- Need for support. Some children are left without parents or are living in poverty. They feel lonely and end up using drugs to feel better. Those children need help before they go down the wrong path.
Furthermore, in this case we need adults to talk to us about the dangers of drugs and alcohol abuse, and not just punish us after it is too late. Not only that, but children’s troubling emotional problems often turn them to drugs and alcohol use which leads to addiction. Sometimes they start experiencing mental illness .
2. Apart from that, children using drugs and alcohol regularly do not do well in school. It affects their attention and memory as well as the ability to learn. Moreover, children using drugs and alcohol do things without thinking. For example, they commit murders and soon after they find that they might go to jail and they think the best option is to commit suicide.
3. According to Penal Code of 2010, it is illegal to give or sell alcohol to children. Children’s Protection and Welfare Act says children should be protected from drug abuse and drug exploitation.
In conclusion, let us always remember that Heber Hover said, “children are our most valuable resource”.
I thank you.
MADAM PRESIDENT: Ba batlang ho bua ha ba bue, Litho tse Khabane.
Pele re koala lipuisano tsa rona, Litho tse Khabane ke kopa ho fa baeti ba rona ba bohlokoa metsotsoana ea ho beha ka bokhuts’oanyane feela litaba tsa bona mabapi le tulo ea kajeno, ‘me bona ke ba latelang…
HON. THATO SELLO (Little Minister of Youth): Kea leboha, Madam President ka monyetla ona oo u mphang ona.
Ke u lumelise, ‘me ke be ke lumelise le Litho tse Khabane tsa Ntlo ena, ke lumelise Mohlomphehi Tona Kholo ea teng har’a rona tsatsing lena la kajeno.
We stand here today to support this Motion to ensure highest standards of child protection. Our legal framework is continuously being updated and strengthened in order to enhance protection and role play of the children of our Nation.
We have the Drug Abuse Act of 2008 which was amended in 2022. We also have the Children’s Protection and Welfare Act for 2011 of which the Government found the need to amend in order to strengthen the protection of our children.
Children’s Protection and Welfare bill 2023 has been tabled before the Parliament. We will continue to strengthen our legal framework to ensure that children are protected from substance abuse.
I thank you.
HON SENATOR BAFOKENG KHOTSO (Little Speaker of the National Assembly): I am very honoured to be given this opportunity to say a few words in this robust informative and constructive debates.
Madam President, Parliament has a unique and urgent responsibility to protect our children. We are committed to working alongside Stakeholders to ensure that children’s voices are heard.
We will ensure speedy response of the Legislature to ensure that kids are protected on such goals as the one being tabled before Parliament.
I used to say, let us not be History, but we must not be remembered as irresponsible Parliamentarians but as leader, who chose compassion and action where it mattered the most.
Thank you.
RT. HON. MANDLA MALEWA (Little Prime Minister): Greetings to His Majesty King Letsie III, The Right Honourable Prime Minister Ntate Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane and all Honourable Members. Protocol observed.
Thank you, Madam President, for this process’s opportunity.
Members of the House, 8.4% of our youth population is already exposed to substance abuse and the statistics calls for urgent attention. I rise to reaffirm our Government’s commitment to ensure that our children are protected from substance abuse. Soon our Government will facilitate multi-central dialogue on child protection and security to encourage children’s participation in decision making processes that affect them.
HON. SENATOR KARABO SEKATJA: Good Morning, Honourable Madam Speaker and Honourable Members of Parliament. My Name is Karabo Sekatja from Tiny Tots Primary School and I am for the Motion that says, ‘Children should be Protected from drugs and alcohol abuse in their communities’.
Esteem Members, we stand here today to strongly advocate for fundamental rights: The right to protection from drugs and exploitation in the drug trade. Government’s child protection systems must ensure that children thrive in safe communities for them to go free from drugs and alcohol abuse.
Children who are free from drugs and alcohol abuse are mentally, physical and emotional stable. Such Children …
MADAM PRESIDENT: Setho se Khabane,u ka lula, u tla qetela ha Little Prime Minister a se a qetile.
RT. HON. MANDLA MALEWA: Greetings to His Majesty King Letsie III, The Right Honourable Prime Minister Ntate Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane, and all Honourable Members, Protocol observed.
Thank you Madam President, for this process’s opportunity.
Members of the House, 8.4% of our youth population is already exposed to substance abuse and the statistics calls for urgent attention. I rise to reaffirm our Government’s commitment to ensure that our children are protected from substance abuse.
Soon our Government will facilitate multi-central dialogue on child protection and security to encouragechildren’s participation in decision making processes that affect them.
In our budget for 2026/2027 fiscal year we will have rehabilitation centres in all 4 regions of our country. This further shows the Government’s commitment in providing comprehensive child protection systems.
I submit, Honourable President and Honourable Members of Senate.
In conclusion, I urge all Basotho to work together in a fight against substance abuse in our country for a better future.
Khotso! Pula! Nala!
MADAM PRESIDENT: Setho se Khabane, u ka bua.
HON. SENATOR KARABO SEKATJA:…as I was saying, such children stand chances of being very responsible future leaders. They attend school and complete their education and follow their dreams. Their lives are observed and respected.
Honourable Members, my point is that, drugs and alcohol deprive children of care, education, food and shelter, which are basic needs. According to Children’s Protection and Welfare Act of 2011 the emphasis is on the best interest of the child and instils duty to ensure their well-being.
Thank you.
MADAM PRESIDENT: Litho tse Khabane, hobna le ba bang ba batlang ho bua?
HON. SENATOR NEO HARMANS: Good morning Madam President and Honourable Members of the House. My name is Hamilton Harmans, I am from the school of Maseru Private Academy. Today I stand before this Honourable House to table reasons why children attempt to use drugs and alcohol.
It is very unnoticed, but I am very happy to see that, we, as children, are here because we understand children more and see what they are.
Firstly, peer pressure is one of the most common reasons why children and teenagers tend to use drugs. Peer influence, Honourable Members, means that friends are always coming to you and saying, “hey! Remember this and that” …
Another common reason is curiosity. Adolescents are naturally curious and if drugs are available at home, school or in the community the curiosity and the temptation to try them increases.
Another reason could be Mental health issues. You might say that mental health issues do not exist because they are very unnoticed but little things can cause chaos right up there.
Another one is unhappy homes, Honourable Members. Unhappy homes can cause mental health issues that can cause drug usage and alcohol usage.
Boredom. Imagine if you are sitting there and you are really bored at home and boom, an idea comes to mind that, _let me try drugs, ‘I saw my mum use them other day”! And the moment you see that drugs are available, you are going to want to use them because of the temptation that they are right in front of you and can just touch them and use them.
Alcohol is another cause. I have mentioned unhappy homes. Imagine a home that is unhappy! You are going to use drugs just to numb the pain, Honourable Members. To numb the pain and to feel relieved.
Madam President, what can the Government do to help children who use drugs? We have to pay for counselling.
Honourable Members, counselling is not always about pain …that you can get help. As the community, we have to help children that we see that use drugs. We have to track down all the drug dealers near youth centers and schools.
This is a big problem, Honourable Members and we need to solve it! It has gone unnoticed for long, but I hope that after what I have said you get inspired to get help for all that we need.
Madam President, that is all…
[liatla]
HON. SENATOR BONOLO KATA: Point of Order, Madam President. Ka lebitso ke Bonolo Kata. I am from the school Tiny Tots International Combined School.
As I stand before you today, Honourable Members, I stand before you supporting a Motion that says Children Should be Protected from Drugs and Alcohol abuse in their communities.
Honourable Members, imagine a world’s future without teachers, leaders – and just imagine a world without doctors1 What will happen to the people living amongst us if simply today’s youth fall into the hands of drugs and alcohol?
Children are the heartbeats of our communities and the builders of tomorrow. If we fail to protect them from substance abuse we tarnish not only their futures but ours as well.
The Honourable Prime Minister unquestionably mentioned that youths are the reason why we keep moving forward. Yes, the youth are the reason why leaders keep changing every day to sustain and grow the country; and not just the country but the whole world.
So, if we fail to help them and sustain them and keep them away from drugs and alcohol abuse we are not only tarnishing them, we are tarnishing ourselves, the people who are …
MADAM PRESIDENT: Order! We should say, ‘Honourable Members’, not ‘opponents’.
HON. SENATOR BONOLO KATA: Thank you. I would like to also stand on the fact that the Motion says that Children should be protected from alcohol and abuse in the communities, but as many have noticed in Lesotho there is a cultural norm in the rural areas where alcohol is easily placed around children and drugs are easily flickering around in front of children under the age of 18, who are considered as minors.
There is a Law that has been stated – the Act of 2008, Section 39, which clearly states that no child should be sent to buy alcohol. No child should be placed with alcohol in front of them and never should they be exposed to any substance of intoxication.
So, with continuous exposure of children in cultural norms in villages how is the Government expecting the student not to be exposed to drugs? The question is, how do we stop it? We can easily stop it by not harming our culture, and rather helping it to go back to the days where it was before.
In Lesotho we have noticed that there is a usage or brewing of cultural beer. This brewing of cultural beer I would like to make an example using it. If there is an event happening at one of the cultural areas where there is a usage of this and where an elder can ask a minor to go get them a cup – is that not an exposure to alcohol? Is that not what the community is trying to stop? If the community is trying to stop it in the urban areas, what is happening to rural areas?
The community has to realise that people move from rural to urban areas to find jobs and a way of living.If they are already exposed to alcohol from where they come from, how are we expecting them not to be exposed here?
Honourable Members spoke about mental health. Mental health is when a certain formation of the brain is disturbed. It is not the only reason why people opt for alcohol abuse and the rest, but rather it is one of the significant ways in Lesotho on the rise when it comes to suicidal rates.
This can be commonly proven that it is not the use of alcohol or drugs whatsoever the problem, but the negligence of the Government on mental health. The Government imposes on the law governing medicines but they never focus on psychology or things that can help with mental health…
HON. SENATOR BONOLO KATA: The government passes law, on medicine but they never focus on psychology – or what they can help with in mental health, so we cannot blame it for alcohol abuse. We cannot tolerate alcohol abuse; and we certainly cannot blame parents for their children using alcohol because every parent does their best to help their child not to be exposed todrugs and alcohol abuse.
Hon member; Point of Order!
Can I finish? Thank you!
So, with that being said, Honourable Member, you were posing – rather you were actually judging the parents on their ways of raising the children? Do you agree or disagree?
HON. SENATOR BONOLO KATA: I disagree actually! When I say parents… when I say parents, I am not…
MADAM PRESIDENT: Setho se Khabane, u ka lula fats’e.
Ha le batla ho bua ke kopa le bue le ‘na le se ke la buisana, kea leboha.
U ka tsoela-pele.
HON. SENATOR NEO HARAMANS: Please excuse me for that, Honourable Chair; what another Honourable member here said is actually blaming me for saying that parents are neglecting the usage…
MADAM PRESIDENT: Setho se Khabane, u se ke oa supa motho.
HON. SENATOR NEO HARAMANS: Ke kopa ts’oarelo.
She is saying that maybe she misunderstood what I said.
What I am saying is that parents are actually unaware of what’s happening to their children, they are unaware that they are harming children, they are unaware that children are using drugs. You could think that when a child comes home, parents could think that, well, my child is so happy, I have done a good job, but then you never know that out there at school, that child is one of the most drug users out there.
Would you be happy if, like, you knew that your child used drugs, Honourable members/
Honourable House, thank you, but the Honourable Member here misunderstood me. I was saying that parents are unaware of what’s happening because of family issues too! That’s what I wanted to say.
HON. SENATOR BONOLO KATA: Excuse me, can I? Oh, Honourable President, can I further my point?
Honourable Member, you do not realise that you are continuously standing to my point! You said that parents do not realise that they are harming their children; the worst that do not realise that they are harming their children – you are posing them as what? They are the reason for their children to do drugs.
I would prefer, Honourable Member, or rather I would have preferred if you chose or if you did not use those words. However you were not observant, so, I do stand to be corrected on that point, because you are continuously claiming that parents are so negligent that they do not realise what their children are doing outside.
That’s what you are posing on the parents; you are blaming parents – you are blaming the parents for the destruction of their own children’s lives! Do you see what you are doing, Honourable Member? Rather than helping the community and helping the parents see that there is a way forward – rather than helping them see that there’s been some negligence albeit there is always a way to fix a mistake, rather than doing that you are holding them accountable and continuously making them guilty!
How are you supposed to help a person if you are riddled with guilt? How is a doctor supposed to give surgery to a person or how is a doctor supposed to be able to tell the family that, ‘we have lost this person’, if you are continuously blaming them, and making them feel guilty?
What I am saying is that I want parents to be aware of that…
MADAM PRESIDENT: Setho se Khabane, u ka lula.
Setho se Khabane, qetela litaba tsa hau.
HON. SENATOR BONOLO KATA: Honourable Member, other than what I had said on the point that I had placed I would like to continue with the Motion.
With that being said nowadays in the Basotho culture it has since been shown long ago that it is every child’s responsibility to be able to structure their future. The Basotho culture has also embraced values such as boikarabello which is responsibility and have placed tlhompho, which is respect, to ensure, to encourage guidance and protection of young people. So what these values are doing is reigning in the very models that have long guided our villages, rather than some destructing culture.
Schools therefore have a duty to teach these through life orientation programs that use Sesotho proverbs, songs and community elders to pass on both legal knowledge and traditional wisdom. They can bring in peer educators, elders and even village chiefs to help shape the minds of the youth in a respectful and powerful way.
Meanwhile the government can provide rehabilitation in the way of rehabilitation services and support after school such as sports or rather competition that may interest the youth.
Without shutting down culture, working with Chiefs and village councils the government can ensure the culture of events continue but safely so. I ask that if this if our law – if our laws are in place, our culture already discourages harm and our schools are ready to teach, so, what is stopping us as the community, as the youth, as the Honourable members to encourage the lack of alcohol exposure to the youth?
Thank you.
MADAM PRESIDENT: Litho tse batlang ho bua ke kopa le etse light li-micro-phone.
HON. SENATOR LERATO SELEMO: I am Lerato Selemo from Maseru SDA Primary. This House …
MADAM PRESIDENT: U ka bua, Mohlomphehi Lerato.
HON. SENATOR LERATO SELEMO: This House believes that children should be protected from Drugs and Alcohol abuse in their Communities.
A study conducted by Ministry of social development as of 2021 showed that there are approximately 125,000 children who are vulnerable to specifically serious challenges which include, among others, exposure to drugs and alcohol abuse, of which 30,000 kids are in urgent need of targeted assistance, much of which are child protection-specific.
Approximately 50% of adolescents exposed to alcohol and illicit drugs prior to age 15 had no conduct-problem history, yet they were still at an increased risk for intake of adult substances, sexually transmitted diseases, early pregnancy, and crime.
With these increased burdens for the support of adolescents and young adults who are not able to become self-supporting, and greater demands for medical and other treatment services what can we do? How can we protect children from abuse of drugs and alcohol as a community?
1. THE GOVERNMENT CAN HELP BY:
- Enforcing strict laws on drug and alcohol sales to minors
- Setting up youth-friendly rehab and counselling centres
- Supporting school-based life skills education
- Creating safe spaces: parks, youth clubs, sports programs
- Partnering with churches, schools and NGO’s
2. PARENTS AND GUARDIANS CAN HELP BY:
- Talking openly with children about dangers of substance abuse
- Being role models andavoiding using harmful substances at home
- Monitoring their child’s friends, movement and behaviour
- Setting clear boundaries with love and consistency
- Joining parent support groups in the community
3. STUDENTS AND YOUTH CAN HELP BY:
- Saying no to drugs and peer pressure
- Choosing friends who respect their values and goals
- Joining anti-drug clubs or schools campaigns
- Speaking up and seeking help when temped
- Educating younger peers about the dangers
Honourable members,did you know that:
- Over 68% of Basotho students have tried drugs or alcohol,
- Practices like hot-spotting (intake of drugs through blood transfusion) spread diseases and addiction, and;
- Drug abuse leads to dropouts, crime, and suicide?
“Protect Lesotho’s children from drug and alcohol abuse.”
Let’s work together: government, parents and students!
TOGETHER WE CAN BUILD A DRUG-FREE GENERATION!
Be the change. Raise awareness. Protect our future.
HON. SENATOR BRIDEWISH: My name is Bridewish, all the way from St. James Primary School. I pass my sincere greetings to everyone in this House, respecting all protocol.
Ladies and gentlemen, I am not going to go through the Motion because you cannot be in this House and not know what the Motion means! That would be petty!
Let me start by saying something simple: drugs lie, they lie to your body, they lie to your brain, and they lie to your future.
People might say it is this just one time – or it will make them feel better, but the truth is that one time can destroy dreams that took a life time to build. I have seen people lose control of their lives just because they trusted the wrong voice and that voice came from a peer, a bottle, or a powder, and it did not care about them! That’s why I speak out, because I care. We are not just kids, we are the future and we deserve to grow up healthy, strong and free from the poison that steals who we are.
The good news is we cannot do this alone, I have other Honourable Members with me, and we stand together against drugs; they will never win, not while we stand united!
Thank you.
HON. SENATOR BOHLOKOA MOLAI: Thank you very much, Honourable Chairperson. Warm greetings to the respected Members of the House.
I am Bohlokoa Molai, a Student from Maseru Private Academy and I standfirmly in favour of the motion that children should be protected from drug and alcohol abuse. This is not just a matter of law or morality, but it is a matter of life, health and a future of our society.
Let us begin with the most basic truth; children are not developed mentally, emotionally or physically. Their brains are still forming, and introducing harmful substances such as drugs or alcohol during this vulnerable stage causes irreversible damage, including impaired memory, startled emotional developments and increased rate of addiction.
Let me make this undeniably clear: According to the World Health Organisation, early exposure to drugs or alcohol significantly increases the chance of long term dependency.
What begins as just trying something new open years to health problems, academic failure and crime. Children all over the world need to be protected and guided in anything they do. Protecting children does not mean caging them, BUT giving them the freedom to grow safely; Free from substances that hijack their potential.
But we say, how should the government help to protect children from drug and alcohol abuse?
Firstly, the government should start enforcing age restrictions on these shebeens that sell alcohol, tobacco and drugs. Punish those who sell or supply substances to minors. Cut down on drug trafficking in schools and playgrounds. The government should fund child friendly rehabilitation centres for children struggling with substance abuse, and should partner with NGO’s to run out programmes offered.
Honourable Chair, this is not just an opinion, it is a matter of consequence.
Honourable Members of The House, I would love to leave you with this quote ”to every child, I dream of a world where you can give love, sing, live peacefully and be protected from drug and alcohol abuse”.
I rest my case, Honourable Chair.
MADAM-CHAIR: Point of Order! U ka bua.
HON. SENATOR MPHO MOKONE: Thank you, your Honour. I am Mpho Mokone from Maseru SDA Primary School.
Honourable Members, imagine living in a country with no children or youth! What would happen if the current Prime Minister retires or dies – would the country have future leaders? Remember Proverbs Chapter 22:6 says, “train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it”.
Now let’s talk about how we can protect children in the Community as the Lesotho Government. Why should the government act? It has a Constitutional and Moral responsibility to protect citizens – especially vulnerable children. Without intervention the country’s future leadership and workforce are at risk.
How the government can protect the children:
- It can create and enforce stronger laws
- It can regulate and monitor sale of drugs and alcohol near schools
- It can enforce penalties for selling to minors
- It can establish National Rehabilitation and Counselling Centres
- It can open public rehabilitation facilities dedicated to youth and families affected
- It can revive centres like Blue Cross which once served the nation
- It can support schools with life skills programmes
- It can introduce compulsory education in both urban and rural schools
- It can train teachers and counsellors to identify and support affected learners
- It can invest in youth friendly public spaces
- It can fund safe parks, sports programmes and create clubs to keep children engaged and away from harmful environment
- It can partner with NGOs,
- It can collaborate with community leaders already involved in child protection; for example, Mokhosi oa ‘Mangoana Initiatives.
Parents and Guardians:
Why should parents be involved? Children learn values and behaviours first at home.
How can parents protect the Children?
- Open communication; talk to children early and often about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse.
- Lead by example; avoid using or misusing substances around children.
- Set boundaries and monitor Behaviour, know your child’s friends, where they go after school and how they spend weekends.
- Join or form parenting groups. community parent circles can share ideas, challenges and support other in keeping children from drugs and alcohol abuse.
Student and young People
Why students should take responsibility:
- Children and teens are not just victims – they are also change-makers.
- They can resist peer pressures and be positive to others.
How Students can Protect themselves:
- Stay informed and educated: learn about how drugs affect your brain, body, future and relationships.
- Avoid Peer Pressure traps: Practice saying no confidently when offered harmful substances.
- Join and start Anti-Drug Campaigns: Participate in school debates, clubs, or Children’s Parliament to speak out and lead.
- Seek Help when Needed: Don’t suffer in silence – talk to a teacher, parent, pastor, or counsellor if you are tempted or struggling.
We say no to Drugs and Alcohol.
HON. SENATOR TEBOHO QEKISE: Good morning, Madam-President and Honourable Members. My name is Teboho Qekise and I attend school at Maseru Private Academy.
Honourable Members, I stand before you with the motion that children must be protected from drugs and alcohol abuse in their communities. This is not just a suggestion, it is a national emergency, a spiritual responsibility and the fight for the soul of our nation.
Children are born with purpose and that purpose is being stolen by a silent killer: drugs and alcohol. This evil grips into our homes, our streets, our schools and last of all into the hearts of the young and the world watchers. The Bible, in Proverbs Chapter 22:6, says “train up a child the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it”. This means children don’t just need love, they need direction.
Luke 17: 2 also tell us “It is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and be cast into the sea than that he should offend one of these little ones”. Nowadays children are being targeted on social media, while dealers pretend to be friends.
I thank you.
MADAM-PRESIDENT: Ke kopa le tlohele ho re, ‘Point of Order’, le penye microphone feela ke tla le khetha!
U ka tsoela-pele.
HON. SENATOR CHERISH HARRISSON: Good morning everyone. All protocol observed. I stand here to go by the Motion that says “Children should be protected from drugs and alcohol in their communities”.
Children are vulnerable and need protection. Children due to their age and developmental stage lack the capacity to fully understand and navigate complex or dangerous situations making them particularly vulnerable to harm and in need of safeguarding by adults and society.
Childrens’ vulnerability sterms from their limited physical, emotional and cognitive development. They depend on adults for care and guidance and protection.
These dependence and lack of experience necessitate proactive measures to ensure their wellbeing and safety.
Drugs and alcohol abuse in communities pose a threat to children’s wellbeing. The presence of drug and alcohol abuse create an environment that is detrimental to children. It can lead to increased crime rates, neglect for parenting, exposure to harmful substances and normalisation of substance abuse all which directly threaten childrens’ physical safety, emotional stability and health development.
When drugs and alcohol are prevalent to the community resources are often strained, families and social family weekends can be destabilised. Children may witness or experience violence, neglect or exploitation as a result of substance abuse.
The normalisation of substance abuse results in early experimentation and addiction among youth. Children in such communities may lack positive role models or miss out on opportunity for healthy development.
Protecting children from exposure to substance abuse is a societal responsibility; it does not only involve an individual or family.
Protecting children from the dangers of drugs and alcohol abuse is a sheer responsibility involving parents, educators, community leaders, law enforcement and policy makers. I believe that effective prevention and intervention strategies require a collective effort to create a safe environment, provides support services and just the underlining issues that contribute to substance abuse, thank you.
MADAM-PRESIDENT: Setho se Khabane, u ka bua.
HON. SENATOR CHERISH HARRISON: Drugs and alcohol. So, just as this House believes that children should be protected from drug and alcohol abuse in the communities, of which talks are about the psychological effects of drugs in children – drugs are known to have sentimental effects on the health of the user. Those effects are anxiety, depression and low self-esteem.
Now, I will secondly like to proceed on to the Health problems. The use of drugs and alcohol currently presents the most serious factor of the health and well-being of children. Children with addiction often have one or more associated health problems which can include lung or heart disease, stroke, cancer or any other mental health conditions.
Honourable Members, Ladies and Gentlemen, I personally agree that this House believes that children should be protected from drug and alcohol abuse in the communities, because they are likely to be engaged in risky behaviours and can experience ill- health conditions. They are also more likely to experience social, academic and legal issues.
Why do children use drugs and alcohol? You may find that your children are exposed to drugs when the parents and guardians use drugs and alcohol at parties, especially birthday parties. Cigarette smoking during pregnancy right through to adolescence stages causes significant problems in children, including bad socialization. How can the government and the church help children stop the use of alcohol?
The following Strategies could be adopted:
- From the government:-
- Educational campaigns: the government should find inappropriate evidence of drugs and alcohol abuse in schools and communities and promote awareness.
- Effect after school recreational activities like sports and arts.
- The Church
- Teach children self-discipline and self-respect in order to make good choices based on their values.
Honourable Members, Ladies and Gentlemen, in conclusion, I would like to advise children to stop using drugs and alcohol because they are likely to engage in risky behaviour and that could ruin their bright futures.
Thank you!
HON SENATOR KARABELO LEKHOOANA: Thank you, Honourable Madam President. My name is Karabelo Lekhooana from ‘New Millennium International School’.
Today, I stand here to support the Motion ‘that, ‘Children Should Be Protected From Substance Abuse’.
Imagine a world where every child goes out free from the shadow of addiction, where communities stay sober, and run against the desired planned routine and loss cause by substance abuse.
Thirdly, this is far from reality, as today I will be discussing a crisis that touches every corner of our society, a crisis that is putting danger to our youth, which is drug and alcohol abuse! It is a problem that does not discriminate, as it affects families, friends and children regardless of their age and background. But, the question is: ‘Are we doing enough to combat it and try to find a solution?’
Together let’s explore the causes, consequences and spot areas where we can take initiatives to build a healthier future.
Drug abuse is not just an individual problem, it is a societal issue, as over time being less concerned over addiction is taking lives, resulting in broken families and drained resources! So, why does this happen? For children, it happens because of peer pressure, a lack of education about drugs, mental health challenges and socio-economics factors, leading to individual stand in the dark perspective.
The effect of drug abuse is devastating, thus posing mental health challenges, crime and economic burdens, as families are torn apart due to slashed intolerances.
What can we do to stop this? The following are Suggested:
- Firstly, we should educate Children on the dangers of drug abuse.
- Secondly, let’s create Awareness campaigns in the communities and clubs at the schools to ensure that all the children around the world know the dangers of drug abuse.
- Thirdly, let’s provide school with counsellors’ purpose and school support groups for the students struggling with substance abuse.
- Fourthly, provide and enforce policies that ensure that consequences are minimised and managed.
- Lastly, by encouraging Children to do extracurricular activities to ensure that we boost their self-esteem.
In conclusion, Let’s educate ourselves and others about the dangers of drug abuse, and be supportive to someone out there that needs to stay drug free.
I Submit!
HON SENATOR RORISANG KHAMALI: Greetings to the President of the Senate, Honourable Members of the House and my fellow counterparts. My name is Rorisang Khamali from ‘Maseru Private Academy’, and I strongly urge that Children should be protected from drugs and alcohol abuse in the communities.
Allow me, to start by defining the key words: that, a drug is a medicine that changes how you normally feel, while abuse is overly using something.
There are several factors that cause drug and alcohol abuse in children.
- The first one is family dynamics; causing drama which may lead to assault, rape end exploitation.
- Another cause is peer pressure; the pressure to fit in takes over and before we know it one is already in too deep, thus people turn to addicts, which may lead to committing different crimes. For example, house breaking, domestic violence and the likes, and this shows how dangerous drugs are in our communities.
Studies have shown that people in the United State of America, consume more illicit drugs than anywhere else. Drugs are however a global pandemic, and in our very Lesotho if you go around places like Ha Thamae, Khubetsoana and Thibella you get to experience the dire effects of drugs(abuse) on young lives, with no future to look forward to.
The big question however is, how can we protect children against this horrible virus of drug and alcohol abuse?
We can start by setting a good example in our households; we should not smoke in front of children or even send them to go buy us cigarettes or alcohol. It is wrong. In actual fact Ringo Starr once said: “That’s what all drugs and alcohol do, they cut off your emotion in the end”.
We can also start teaching children early about the good and the bad of substances. Let us use examples of the effects caused by drinking and the criminal record they will have for doing that. Thanks to LMPS Page, a solid example is free there.
There is a saying that goes, “Prevention is better than cure.” Our NGOs should work hand in hand with government and start educational programs at schools teaching learners of substance abuse at an early age. This will help decrease the usage to a certain percentage.
Radio Stations and social media platforms can also be used in spreading out the word.
As I conclude, I have a special plea to our National Security Forces, that a harsh sentence should be given to drug lords and also for the people on the ground to do the chasing, and say no to bribe. Remember that if you let one drug lord free, in a day he destroys five lives. It could be someone’s child today who is fed the poison but it could be yours tomorrow! Is that the risk that we need to take? I don’t think so! Let us work together in ensuring that Lesotho’s future falls in the right hands of drug free society members. It starts with each one of us, and it starts today.
I thank you.
HON SENATOR MAMOKHATLA NTSIHLELE: Conversing in this Motion about drugs and alcohol abuse, don’t lecture instead be a good listener; listen to your child’s concerns and questions and advise their options!
To us as kids, here in schools we have people who are bullies – and bullies think that they are clever, as they might force you to go and use drugs. Have the confidence to say, no! That might help you.
Law Report, according to ‘Education Act of 2010’, states that every child has a right to education, but drugs take this right away by causing kids to drop out of school or poor learning. The Child’s Act, as cited by Kimane 259, in 2022, is the guide statute with regard to children’s matters, parental involvement in the management of drug abuse. This simply means that the mass-conversations between parents and kids are critical for any child’s health. No person shall subject a child to buy or sell alcohol, no person can expect a child to use tobacco products, alcohol or any other substance that can be harmful to the child’s health.
I thank you.
HON SENATOR BOHLALE MARATA: Honourable President of the Senate, distinguished Members and esteemed Colleagues, My name is Bohlale Marata from ‘Little Flower English Medium School’. I rise today to support this very important Motion that says, ‘Children Should Be Protected From Drugs And alcohol Abuse In Their Communities’.
- Firstly, drugs and alcohol are too easy to access, in many parts of Lesotho, as children are easily sent to buy alcohol for adults. Some even start drinking or smoking at the very young age.
- While Lesotho Law prohibits selling of alcohol to children the enforcement is poor. Honourable President and Honourable Members, we are all aware of the advertisements displayed on TV, Social Media or even bill-boards on the road, that they do not only attract the adult market but they also attract childrens’ eyes, therefore for this point, I recommend that the government should stop people from selling alcohol to children, police should arrest those who, with intent, distribute these harmful substances to children.
Second point is, substance abuse destroys our education. Exposure to drugs and alcohol severely impact a child’s cognitive faculties, including memory retention, concentration, critical thinking – all of which are dispersible to academic success.
Honourable members and the Honourable President, drugs and alcohol are harming our children every day, as they are too easy to get.
MADAM PRESIDENT: Setho se khabane, u bue u shebile setulo; ese mahlakoreng’
Kea leboha.
HON. SENATOR BOHLALE MARATA: As I was saying, Honourable Members of the Senate, drugs and alcohol are harming our children every day, as they are too easy to find and they are ruining our health, our education and our future.
Children copy what they see and this leads to addiction, violence and suffering.
Honourable Members, I thank you for listening to my words today.
Kea leboha.
HON. SENATOR TEBELLO LESAOANA: Observing all protocol. I am Tebello Lesaoana from Advent Ville High School and I rise to strongly support the Motion that this House believes that Children should be protected from Drug and Alcohol abuse in their Communities. To put this in simpler terms this House believes that anyone under the age of 18 must be shielded by Policy Majors to reduce accessibility, exposure, affordability and consumption of Drugs and Alcohol, so that they do not harm nor damage their health, their minds and their life in general.
This means everyone is responsible to shield a child from Drug and Alcohol Abuse, in an area where a child resides, learns and grows. By Police majors, Honourable Members, I mean Laws and regulations that prohibit the sale of Drugs and Alcohol to children, reckless handling, as well as punishment of the perpetrators. Here I am talking about fines and penalties of selling Drugs and Alcohol, especially to children.
As children we end up using Drugs and Alcohol because of the following reasons:
- Peer pressure.
- Curiosity and Experimentation.
- Lack of parental support and supervision.
- Low self-esteem.
Honourable Members, who will lead this Country in the future if today’s children are already dying due to Drug and Alcohol Abuse? To protect children from Drug and alcohol Abuse we need strong community programs, parental support and Laws that stop the sale of Drugs and Alcohol near schools and at play grounds.
Our Government should implement comprehensive Drug and Alcohol educational programmes in schools focusing on prevention, risk and consequences. It should also increase access to health care and counselling services for children struggling with Alcohol and Drug Abuse. Moreover, the Government should also strengthen Laws and increase fines and penalties for people selling Drugs and Alcohol to Children.
Our schools should also help in protecting children from Drug and Alcohol Abuse. They should help by providing extracurricular activities, sports and clubs to keep children engaged and motivated to avoid drug and alcohol Abuse. They should also help by creating students’ support groups and peers support programmes.
Parents do play a significant role in protecting children from Drugs and Alcohol Abuse. Maintaining open and honest communication and encouraging children to share opinions and feelings is one of the ways to help.
As children we can also help to reduce this drug and Alcohol Abuse by choosing good friends, learning how to say no confidently to substance offers.
Honourable Members, protecting children from Drug and Alcohol Abuse is not just a good idea but it is a responsibility. If we fail to protect children today we fail the future of our Country. Let us act with all courage, let us give children the protection they need to thrive.
Thank you.
MADAM PRESIDENT: Setho se Khabane Lerato Khoete, u ka bua.
HON. SENATOR LERATO KHOETE: Greetings Honourable President and Honourable Members of the Senate. Today I stand in belief with the House that Children must be protected from Drugs and Alcohol Abuse in their communities. We believe that children are people below the age of maturity at 18 and they must be protected from harm, be away from dangers, away from Alcohol and Drugs and the misuse of these substances.
Honourable Members of the Senate, imagine the future with very few teachers, very few Doctors only because we were not able to protect children from drugs and alcohol which are very dangerous to their health and their mental states.
The Children Protection and Welfare Act of 2011 states that:
Children have the right to be protected from harmful substances such as narcotics, alcohol or psychotropic drugs or any other harmful substances. They must be protected from the involvement of production of these harmful substances and the distribution.
Convention of the Rights of the child (CLC) article 33 states that: all parties shall take all appropriate majors to protect a child from illicit use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Question is:
Are all these Laws being taken into consideration?
Are children being protected from Drugs and Alcohol Abuse in the community as they should be?
Hence why I strongly stand with the Motion that Children must protected from Drugs and Alcohol . I and you too should be willing to take the necessary majors to ensure that children are protected from harmful substances.
I thank you.
HON. SENATOR TSITSO SHAO: Thank you, Honourable President. My name is Ts’ito Shao from St James free Primary School.
I want to talk about something really important; sometimes the hardest thing to say is, ‘NO’, but saying, no, is being brave. People might tease you, pressurize you or act like you are scared, but here is what I think, being scared of losing your life, your future or your family that is worthier! So saying no to drugs – that is your strength.
When I say, no, to drugs, I say, yes, to things that matter;, my dreams, my family, my peace of mind – and if you ever feel like you are standing alone look at us – me first, and Honourable President Lebohang; we have got your back. We do not shame people, but we safe them, we lift them! We are stronger together we are louder than fear.
Thank you.
MADAM PRESIDENT: Setho se Khabane Mohlapiso Mohlapiso.
HON. SENATOR MOHLAPISO MOHLAPISO: Good day, Madam President, Members of the House and Ladies and Gentlemen.
I rise to give conviction to argue in favour of the resolution that this House believes that Children should be protected from Drug and Alcohol Abuse from their Communities. The Law demands it.
The Children and Welfare Act of 2011 of Lesotho, under Section 10, clearly states that every child has the right to protection from harmful substances, including Drugs and Alcohol. The Law should not just be imposed on people, it should be made to guide our youth by ensuring they are not exposed to Drugs. One who exposes children to drugs is violating their constitutional rights and robbing them of their future.
Nelson Mandela once said, ‘there can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way it treats its children.’
Secondly is the Health and psychological damage. Children are physically and mentally vulnerable when exposed to Drugs and alcohol and their brains suffer irreversible chain damage. According to the World Health Organisation early drug use increases the risk of life long addiction, mental disorders and even death.
A community that allows this is like a parent offering poison to a child and calling it freedom. It is our moral duty to shelter them from these dangers not to ignore them.
Thirdly, Drugs feed crime to future; the right in child drug use is directly linked to crime, school dropout and gender based violence. Drug use often expose children as carriers or bait – introducing them to crime from an early age. If we do not protect them we are silently improving a pipeline from playground to prison.
The community responsibility.
Honourable Senators, protecting children is not only the role of parents or Police, but it is the responsibility of each and every one of us. Teachers, Chiefs, neighbours and young and youth leaders, must join hands. Our silence is consent – and consent in the face of destruction is complicity.
In conclusion, let us remember, when the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind. Let us grow these roots strong by sheltering our children from the wind of drugs and alcohol.
Let this House stand united for protection, not regret, action not silence.
Kea leboha, Mohlomphehi.
HON. LITTLE PRESIDENT: Litho tse Khabane, ho sa na le Litho tse batlang ho bua?
Setho se Khabane, u ka bua.
HON. L. KHOPANE: Good morning, Honourable President and Honourable Members. Without wasting of time, I want to say something all of us need to hear. We are not experiments beyond my belief and we are not trash cans nor test subjects for someone’s profits.
The people who push drugs do not care about – they do not care even if we overdose, go to hospitals or ruin our futures lives, but they care about money and we are not for sale. Our minds, our bodies are priceless. So, no! I will not try it once. So, no! I will not take it even a little. I love myself way too much for that and you should love yourselves too.
If somebody offers you drugs, they are not offering you friendship but they are offering you a trap. If you need help we are here, we are and we will be the voice that reminds you that you are worth more than any high, you are worth more than any lie.
HON. L. MAKOANYANE: I would like to support the Motion before the House. My first point is about family and community impacts – drugs and alcohol abuse can break the relationships and distract the community’s cohesion.
Personally in families like mine – we were told that it started from our elders and further distract the young ones. Apparently, it has become a generational issue. As we speak today, 80% of children in my family are victims of kholumo-lumo ena. Some are drop-outs, some have experienced teenage pregnancy, while others are looking like 85 year old elders at the age of 10 – 16 years.
Unfortunately, the same children I am talking about who are from my own family are part of a dangerous group of gangsters called “manomoro”. They stab people with knives, they are thieves, they are shoplifters as well as creators of havoc in the communities.
Therefore, I recommend that elders should live by example in decisions and choices.
Honourable Members, allow me to continue with my second point which is the last but not the least. Health risks – exposure to drugs and alcohol can lead to serious health issues, including physical health problems and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
In relation to what my Fellow Honourable Member, who talked about gender based violence said, these children end up using drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism frequently, which can result in damage of heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. It is indeed expensive to cure.
Honourable Members, are you aware of the cost of a kidney, heart, lung and liver transplant? Are you aware that there are no good specialists in transplanting these organs in Lesotho?
A recent survey indicated that 30.7% of the population are victims of drugs and alcohol abuse, and about 8.7 % of that percentage are students only – not all the children.
In this matter, I recommend that we raise more awareness and increase support groups in the communities as well as empowering youth societies.
Thank you!
HON. H. SARR: Thank you, Honourable President, Honourable Members, observing all the protocol.
Ke ngoanana oa Mosotho, ea tsebang Sesotho ka kotloloho. I am from St. James Primary School.
As you see me standing here, don’t underrate me. I am not just a kid, I am a wall between my peers and danger, a wall between my generation and distraction. We are building a wall made of honesty, courage and love. And that wall subtracts in their check.
The people who sell drugs, guess what, they fear us, they fear kids who stand for themselves, who speak out and who protect one another. So, don’t just avoid drugs, but stand up against them. Be the reason some walk away instead of coming in. Be the voice that says, you are not alone.
Our Mover of the Motion spoke all the points; our seconder of the Motion gave us courage. The other Member gave us pride, and me, I give you power, together we are not just saying, no, but we are saying, never! When we stand side by side, drugs do not stand a chance.
Thank you, Mohlomphehi.
HON. R. MOHOLOLI: Greetings, Honourable Madam President and Honourable Members.
I stand firm in support of the Motion that is tabled before this House.
Madame Chair, what role does the community hold if the children are tripped by addiction before they even reach adultery? What future can we claim if the young generation is addicted to the drugs and alcohol they never probably didn’t choose to be exposed to?
Without further wasting time, I would like to support the Motion. This Motion calls for active steps to protect children from drugs and alcohol. It emphasises on the role of communities, Governments and institutions for creating sober environments for children in order for them to learn, thrive and grow without any exposure to harmful substances.
Children’s Protection and Welfare Act, 2011, Part III, which talks of Rights of a child, e leng Section 18, claims that children should be protected from harmful substances and practices.
According to 2022 Survey of the Anti-drug Association of Lesotho, over 40% secondary students in Maseru have either tried drugs or alcohol even as early as 13 years old.
Suggestions and solutions that could be made are: unlicensed liquor outlets near schools should be shut down and parents should learn to spot any early signs of substance use and always search their kids’ bags to find what is in them.
In conclusion, children are the next generation, and letting drugs and alcohol ruin their future should not be tolerated. With stronger community actions and companionship the cycle of drugs and alcohol abuse can be broken.
Thank you, Madame President.
HON. N. NTS’EPE: Honourable President, distinguished Honourable Members.
I rise to support the Motion against that which can destroy the future of our nation, which is drugs and alcohol abuse amongst students. These young minds are meant to be natured, educated and empowered to lead, but drugs and alcohol abuse is still a risk in their potential.
Together let us go through the causes of drugs and alcohol abuse. Mental health issues – stress and anxiety from academic pressure, curiosity and experiment and lastly peer pressure. These are the effects of drugs and alcohol abuse.
Physical health issues – the increase of car accidents, increase of diseases and social and relationship issues.
Here are the things that can be done to prevent drugs and alcohol abuse amongst students: after school activities such clubs and arts to keep students busy after school.
Secondly, parental guidance to encourage open communication and thirdly positive role models such as teachers or older students can help.
Honourable President and respected Members of the House, drugs and alcohol abuse amongst students is a serious factor that affect education and future. It diverts dreams, weakens communities and limits the potential of tomorrow’s leaders.
Let us stand firm in protecting young people from this danger. Let us choose knowledge over distraction, discipline over addiction and hope over harm. Let us say, no, to drugs and alcohol abuse, because our future depends on it!
Thank you.
HON.SENATOR N. BANYANE: Observing all Protocol.
Madame President, I want to support this Motion of the Honourable Member.
Unto my first point – violence into homes and communities. Many children have the fear of what happens when adults drink or use drugs and alcohol. We see fightings, shouting and sadness where there should be peace and harmony.
For example – when parents fight in front of children, it might hurt them emotionally and as a result their academic performance declines.
Another example – when parents are busy with drugs and alcohol, we as children are exposed to gender based violence from those individuals who are not law abiding.
HON.SENATOR NT’SEBO BANYANE: I recommend that parents or elders stop alcohol and drug usage so as to set good example before us as future leaders and parents.
I am on to my second point on the exposure of drugs and alcohol to children. If we grow up watching adults use drugs and alcohol in public, we think it is normal, but it is not. We need good examples to follow, especially from parents and guardians. For example, when parents are using drugs and alcohol where children are watching them, there are possibilities of them coping the parents and encouraging their friends to use them, which is not good.
I recommend that if parents feel compelled to use alcohol and drugs it should not be in the presence of children, or that government should enact a legislation to prohibit such acts.
Thank you.
LITTLE MADAM PRESIDNT: Setho se Khabane Thlohonolofatso Mathaba,u ka bua.
HON.SENATOR.THLOHONOLOFATSO MATHABA: Thank you, Madam Speaker and Hon Members. I rise to support the Motion that says children should be protected from alcohol and drug abuse in communities.
Causes of drug abuse may be the following: peer pressure and low self-esteem.
I say children are people who need to be nurtured and taught. I think the government should provide programmes where recovering addicts are invited to share their stories and inform children about the dangers of drug abuse. For example, there is a program on Moja Love called “U Abuser’’ where the Host and the recovering addicts get to face the addicts.
Thank you.
LITTLE MADAM PRESIDENT: Ke kopa, Little Senator Karabelo Motanyane, u etse wrap up your Motion.
FORMER LITTLE PRESIDENT KARABELO MOTANYANE: Thank you, Honourable President. I am Karabelo Motanyane, the former Little Speaker of the National Assembly. I am the mover of the Motion that says children must be protected from alcohol and drug abuse in the community.
We as the parliament of Lesotho stands together in the saying that children must be protected. Protecting children is not an option; it is a responsibility. Alcohol and drugs are destroying children’s health, they are affecting their education, increasing crime and tearing families apart.
Children are the future of the nation and we must protect them through education, stronger life and united community action.
As I close I want to thank all the Honourable Members for supporting this Motion. Your voices and support show that we are serious about building a safer Lesotho for every child. This Motion is more than just words; it is a commitment for creating a better tomorrow for all Basotho Children.
I thank you, Honourable President.
LITTLE MADAM PRESIDENT: Kea le, Litho tse Khabane. I put the question that this Hon Senate urges the government of Lesotho to protect children from drugs and alcohol abuse in their communities.
Ba lumelang ha ba re, ‘ee’ ba hanang ba re, ‘che’!
Bongata ke bo lumelang, Litho tse Khabane. Tlhahiso ena e amohetsoe ke Ntlo.
Question put and agreed to.
RESOLVED: That, “The Children should be Protected from Drug and Alchohol Abuse”.
LITTLE MADAM PRESIDENT: Ke kopa ho lefa litsebiso tsa ho qetela. After adjournment bohle le sale le lutse fats’e kaha Madam President o batla ho tla le lumelisa.
Litho tse Khabane, ha re il’o nkang lifoto ka ntle le Madam President.
Kea leboha.
Re fihletse pheletsong ea mosebetsi oa kajeno ’me ke leboha bohle ba bileng le seabo katlehisong ea mosebetsi ona. Ntlo e tla phomola ho fihlela hosane ka 10:30 a.m.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business on the Order Paper, Little Madam President adjourned the House without question put, pursuant to the standing Order No 16(3). The House was adjourned at 12:18 a.m.