The Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Malakal, Stephen Nyodho Ador, has called on the Upper Nile State government to enact stringent laws criminalizing drug trafficking and strengthen efforts to prevent the importation of drugs into the state.
Speaking during a Holy Mass celebrating the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Christ the King Parish in Malakal, Bishop Nyodho expressed concern over the increasing use of drugs among young people across the state.
He warned that drug abuse is putting the future of young people at risk, noting that the youth are the future of both Upper Nile State and South Sudan.
“My message is directed to the state government, particularly the legislators, urging them to enact laws that penalize drug-related crimes. These crimes threaten to reach every household, including the homes of ministers; therefore, legislation is essential to prevent this.”
The Bishop said his concern was reinforced during pastoral visits to some counties, where he personally witnessed people involved in drug trafficking.
He called on both the executive and legislative branches of the state government to monitor and secure routes used to bring drugs into Upper Nile State.
Bishop Nyodho also urged authorities to introduce and enforce legal measures targeting both drug traffickers and users, describing drug abuse as a dangerous problem affecting children, young people and adults.
“The issue of drugs is of critical importance. Those who travel abroad are well aware of the harm caused by these substances. Consequently, the fight against drugs should not be left to the government alone; every member of society must assist the government in combating this dangerous affliction that harms young and old alike.”
The Bishop identified the northern parts of Upper Nile State, particularly Renk County, a border area between Sudan and South Sudan, as among the areas where drugs and suspected traffickers are reportedly found.
He stressed that combating drug abuse requires collective action involving government authorities, religious leaders, families and communities.
Bishop Nyodho appealed in his homily during the Mass marking the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which commemorates the belief that Mary was taken, body and soul, into heavenly glory.