STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY – 10th September, 2024 – Lusaka
REMOVE DOOM FROM THE MARKET
At the rate people are allegedly commiting suicide especially the young people using suspected pesticides and Doom in particular is alarming and there is need to remove this deadly insect – human killer off the market.
This should be done as soon as possible and without compromise or hesitation.
The Government of the republic of Zambia and all health regulators in particular those mandated to regulate the sale of medicines and chemicals on the market should ensure that such products like Doom are sold in established pharmacies only and that no person should buy these products without a specific prescription or recommendation to do as the case is now.
As we continue contemplating on finding the lasting solution to this problem, Government through parliament should consider introducing a law that will ensure that any pharmacist found selling the product to a customer without a prescription should have their licenses revoked.
No malice attached but it is in public domain that the continued sell of pesticides such as Doom by anyone is proving to be a threat to human life as evidenced by numerous reports of people dying after consuming the same. These suicide cases are alarming and we cannot continue acting normal, pretending all is well when in fact not.
The fact of the matter is that Zambians, especially young people are struggling mentally hence, our call for a serious investment in mental health services in the country.
I do understand that removing the products off the market will not address this problem but I feel it will help in reducing suicide cases we are experiencing in the country.
We cannot continue losing lives at this rate especially youths.
As we do this, we seriously need to put our heads together and tackle mental health issues with the seriousness it deserves.
Lastly, the public is urged that no matter the magnitude of the problem one is going through, suicide is NEVER a solution. Let us break the silence and share what we are going through. Mental health is real.
Issued by;
Francis Chipalo (Mr)
Mental Health Activist
0977203043
Email: francischipalo@rocketmail.com
