The Central Equatoria State Women’s Union has raised concern over the growing problem of drug abuse among young people, calling on families to show compassion and support for affected children instead of rejecting them.
Speaking during the International Women’s Day celebrations organized by the Central Equatoria State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare in Juba on Wednesday, the acting chairperson of the union, Cicilia Laku, appealed to parents to forgive children struggling with drug addiction and welcome them back home.
Laku emphasized that family support plays a critical role in helping young people recover and rebuild their lives.
“Parents should forgive their children who are involved in drug addiction and allow them to return home,” she said.
“Once the child returns home and receives support from the family, he or she is likely to reform and become a better person.”
She warned that rejecting or isolating young people who are battling addiction can worsen the problem, pushing them further into harmful behaviors.
The remarks came as part of the state-level International Women’s Day celebration, which brought together government officials, civil society groups, and community leaders to discuss social challenges affecting families and communities in Central Equatoria State.
Participants at the event highlighted the need for stronger community involvement, awareness campaigns, and family-centered approaches to address substance abuse among youth.
The Central Equatoria State Women’s Union reiterated its commitment to working with government institutions and communities to promote family unity, protect vulnerable youth, and address social issues affecting young people across the state.
