Authorities in Central Equatoria State (CES) have expressed concern over growing drug abuse among young people, saying the trend is putting the future of many children at risk.
State Minister of Health Najuwa Juma Mursal said drug abuse
has become a serious problem in communities, particularly among young boys. She
noted that many youths are misusing pills instead of alcohol, which is making
the situation worse.
“There is a very big problem happening in our society today,
and that is drug abuse. Even alcohol is no longer the main problem among our
young people. Many young boys now take pills that quickly give them the same
effect as alcohol,” Mursal said.
She added that a recent operation by the state government
and the security committee uncovered a large quantity of illegal drugs being
sold in parts of Juba.
“Two weeks ago we carried out a campaign in Juba with the
security committee of Central Equatoria State and we found a large amount of
drugs. These drugs are being sold in local restaurants, tea places, shisha
places and even in some drug stores,” she said.
Mursal called on parents, especially mothers, to report
anyone involved in selling drugs.
“If we as mothers do not fight this problem, it will continue destroying our
children. We must report these cases and not be afraid,” she added.
Cicilia Laku Wani of the Central Equatoria State Women Union
said many young people turn to drugs and alcohol out of frustration caused by
unemployment.
“Many of our children are frustrated because there are no
jobs. Because of this, some of our boys fall into alcohol, drugs and other
harmful activities,” she said.
Wani urged young people to listen to their parents and focus
on education despite the challenges.
“The future belongs to you. Our time has already passed. If you are not
educated, where will you go? You must struggle and work hard to get a strong
certificate,” she said.
Zendia Eluzai, State Minister of Gender, Child and Social
Welfare, said many children who end up on the streets come from families
struggling to support them. She warned that peer influence is pushing many
young people into drugs and other risky behaviors.