Drug abuse crisis threatens Zimbabwe's creative industry

Zimbabwe's once-vibrant showbiz scene is fast losing its sparkle as an alarming number of artists fall prey to drug and substance abuse - a trend now threatening to erase a generation of creative talent.

Zimdancehall singer Blot, real name Takura Chiwoniso, was recently admitted to Matrix Rehabilitation Centre in Harare after reportedly battling drug addiction. His case mirrors that of fellow artist Ras Pombi, who was jailed for drug possession, and Dendera musician Tryson Chimbetu, who underwent rehabilitation two years ago after a prolonged struggle with substance abuse.

Hip-hop star Holy Ten also checked himself into rehabilitation earlier this year, citing alcohol and mental health struggles. He joins a growing list of musicians whose careers have been derailed by addiction.

An Afrobarometer (2024) survey paints a grim picture - 79% of Zimbabweans say drug abuse is widespread in their communities, while 56% describe it as "very widespread." Harare and Bulawayo top the list of affected areas, with health institutions reporting a surge in admissions.

Data from the Ministry of Health shows that Sally Mugabe Central Hospital recorded an increase in substance-related admissions from 804 in 2021 to 1 776 in 2023. The most commonly abused substances include crystal methamphetamine (mutoriro), marijuana (mbanje), codeine-based cough syrups, and industrial chemicals.

Experts say the entertainment industry has become a hotspot for drug abuse, with struggling artists resorting to substances to cope with financial pressure, performance anxiety, and the stress of fame. Investigations reveal that many performers openly admit to using drugs or alcohol before shows to "get into character" or "connect with the crowd."

"It's sad because the culture of intoxication has become a badge of courage," said a Harare-based music promoter. "Some of these kids think you can't be creative unless you're drunk or high."

The problem runs deeper, with allegations that some influential figures are using popular artists as drug couriers, exploiting their celebrity status and international travel privileges to smuggle narcotics. The sudden wealth displayed by certain musicians - seen driving luxury cars and living in upscale neighbourhoods - has raised suspicions in an industry grappling with declining revenues.

While rehabilitation facilities like Matrix have emerged as safe havens for struggling artists, mental health advocates warn that some unregistered centres are operating illegally and abusively.

"These centres operate without proper medical oversight," said a mental health activist who declined to be named. "We're seeing physical abuse, forced confinement, and inflated fees of up to US$800 per month. Many are just cashing in on desperate families."

Between January 2024 and March 2025, police arrested more than 5 400 drug users and 677 suspected suppliers across the country. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared war on drug dealers, calling the crisis a threat to the nation's youth. However, critics argue that the state's response has prioritised arrests over prevention and rehabilitation.

Zimdancehall artist Seh Calaz, known for his hit Zvidhakwa, recently issued an emotional plea on social media. "Drugs have become a pandemic," he wrote. "Producers, fans, civil servants - everyone is affected. It's killing creativity."

Cultural critic Benjamin Nyandoro said the combination of fame, poverty, and lack of psychosocial support has created a dangerous cycle. "Artists are under pressure to impress, to stay relevant, to escape poverty. When fame fades, some turn to drugs for comfort. It's a silent epidemic," he said.

Nyandoro urged authorities and industry stakeholders to strengthen support systems, regulate rehabilitation centres, and introduce mentorship and early-warning programmes within schools and the arts sector.

"Substance abuse is not just a law-and-order issue - it's a public health emergency," he said.

As Zimbabwe's creative industry continues to produce new stars, the warning signs are stark. Unless urgent measures are taken to protect artists' mental health and welfare, the nation's cultural brilliance may dim - not from a lack of talent, but from lives lost to addiction.