Charity launches anti-drug campaign in Juba

By Awan Achiek

A youth organization Generation 711 on Wednesday launched a campaign against alcoholism and drug abuse among young people.

The campaign held under the theme “Rescuing Our Nation’s Future” launched at the University of Juba, is supported by Plan International and Save the Children. It seeks to educate youth on the dangers of substance abuse.

Oyella Eunice, Executive Director of Generation 711, said the campaign aims to create awareness about the impact of drug and alcohol abuse among young people.

“Alcohol is the major obstacle and harmful factor that cross-cut in various areas of life, we believe destroying the country,” said Eunice during the launching ceremony in Juba.

She said eradicating drugs could be vital for the future and wellbeing of young people.

A former drug addict, David Chol Kuer shared his story of overcoming addiction and rebuilding his life.

He said he learned smoking cigarettes due to peer pressure.

“I thought it was something good,” Kuer said.

Kuer said that he successfully overcame his addiction and has remained drug-free since then.

“I started as a passive as smoker and slowly I had friends who were already doing that ,and most of them were older than me but the interaction between me and them pulled me from being a passive smoker until 2011,” he said.

Dr. Mawien Atem, Secretary General of Drug and Food Control urged law enforcement agencies to crack down on illegal smuggling of drugs into the country.

“We are keen to make sure that all the medicines and alcohol that gets into the country we know them,” Atem said.

He said many careers of youths have been destroyed by drugs.

“This is an issue except sometimes if you bring data then that attention to them becomes very different, by this time if we move around we will get more than 20 children in this small around next to the University of Juba,” Atem said.

 Drug and alcohol abuse is becoming an alarming issue in South Sudan.

Local brews, marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and other inherent substances such as glue are among the most prevalent drugs.

The campaign seeks to combat the stigma and discrimination faced by individuals who use drugs. It creates a platform for individuals to seek help without fear or marginalization.