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By Fr. Isaac Ojok, Communications Office, Lira Diocese
The Catholic Bishops in Northern Uganda have expressed grave concern regarding the alarming rates of drug abuse among the youth in the region, which they identify as a significant contributor to insecurity within the community.
During the ongoing 18th Provincial Peace and Prayer Week in Koboko Municipality, hosted by the Arua Diocese, bishops from the dioceses of Lira, Arua, Nebbi, and Gulu highlighted that a substantial number of young individuals in the sub-region are involved in excessive consumption of drugs, including alcohol and marijuana, as well as other harmful substances detrimental to health.
In their collective statements, the bishops emphasized that youth engagement in drug abuse is leading to mental health issues, which pose a considerable challenge to public health and are becoming a burden on society. They underscored the urgent need for intervention from all stakeholders to raise awareness about the dangers of drug misuse among both youth and adults.
According to the religious and local community leaders, drug abuse is contributing to insecurity and instilling a common sense of fear within the community.
Bishop Rt. Rev. Sabino Ochan Odoki of the Arua Diocese expressed his concern over the rising instances of mental disorders likely linked to drug abuse, which are fostering increased aggression and domestic violence in society.
As a proactive measure, Bishop Odoki announced the establishment of a counseling ministry within the Arua Diocese aimed at providing support and rehabilitation for victims of drug abuse, particularly focusing on young mothers and their children.
Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, the bishop of the Lira diocese revealed that drug abuse within society is contributing to an increase in sexual offenses, particularly among the local population in the region. He emphasized the necessity for the community to establish a strong moral foundation for children, enabling them to lead responsible and productive lives.
In a related context, Rt. Rev. Dominic Eibu MCCJ, the bishop of the Kotido diocese, who participated in the provincial peace and prayer week in the Arua diocese at the invitation of bishops from Gulu Province, expressed concern that many individuals are currently engaging in reckless behavior due to the influence of alcohol and other substances. He remarked that such recklessness undermines the peace that currently exists in the region.
Bishop Eibu further urged all peace pilgrims to avoid violence with their neighbors, highlighting that for many years, the Karamojong and their neighbors in Lango and Acholi have experienced conflict due to cattle rustling by nomadic groups. As a church leader, he is committed to organizing peace and prayer weeks, along with other initiatives, to foster mutual understanding and harmony among the people.
The bishops concluded their address by stressing the importance of instilling a strong moral foundation in children, enabling them to lead responsible and productive lives within the community.
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