Story by Peter Chivhima
MUSICIAN Takura Chioniso, popularly known as Blot, has spoken candidly about his struggle with drug and substance abuse, describing a difficult period that threatened to derail both his personal life and musical career.
In an interview with ZBC News on Sunday, the artist reflected on his journey from prominence in the music industry to rehabilitation, offering a cautionary message to young people and fellow creatives about the consequences of addiction.
Blot rose to national recognition with popular tracks such as Havasati Vandiona, but his career momentum slowed as substance abuse took hold, leading to missed opportunities and strained relationships.
“Drug abuse affected me deeply, physically, emotionally, and mentally. I lost time, opportunities, and connections that mattered. But I am grateful to be alive today and on the path to full recovery. I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank my family, my management, and the government officials who stood by me and made it possible for me to be admitted into the rehabilitation centre. Their support gave me a second chance.
“To my fans, I want to say I am back, stronger and more focused. I have learned from my mistakes, and I have grown. I have so much more in store for you. Expect new music, performances, and a renewed sense of purpose. To young people and fellow artists: my advice is simple. If you are a public figure, lead by example. People are watching, especially the youth. Don’t glamorise what can destroy you,” he said.
Now on the road to recovery at a local rehabilitation centre, Blot is hoping to use his experience to raise awareness among youths about the harsh consequences of drug and substance abuse.
His manager, Tawanda Mwedzi, recalled the emotional and professional toll addiction took on Blot’s career.
“We watched a promising future slip through our fingers. As you know, the festive season is a peak period with many shows lined up, but because of the drug problem, we were disrupted and lost a lot of money. It was a huge setback,” he said.
Blot’s mother, Mrs Chiedza Chanetsa, emotionally shared how the family struggled watching their son fade away, consumed by addiction.
“I was losing my child, piece by piece. There were times when my son would sleep for almost three days without eating anything, and other times, he would go three days without sleeping at all. It was heartbreaking to watch. He became forgetful, sometimes violent, and we often quarrelled. As a mother, it was painful to see him slipping away like that,” she said.
His story mirrors a growing crisis affecting many, with drugs destroying not just individual lives but also families and communities.
In response to the growing menace, the government is intensifying efforts to combat the scourge through such initiatives as the construction of rehabilitation centres across the country.
