Yambio Alcohol Free Campaign Gains Traction Online
By Jackson Gaaniko
The Alcohol-Free (AF) Campaign, led by Richard Ruati, continues in the town of Yambio in Western Equatoria State, South Sudan, over social media. The campaign aims to inform people about the risks of alcohol and other drug use and provide them with practical skills to make decisions and minimize harm.
“I am doing this free campaign to seek to delay or reduce the use of alcohol and other drugs, or discourage someone from using them at all,” says Ruati.
Last Sunday, Bishop Edwardo Hiboro Kusalla of the Catholic Diocese of Tambura Yambio presented Ruati to the Christians, urging them to follow in his footsteps.
“Alcohol consumption is on the rise among young people, and it’s like poison. Anytime someone can lose his/her life. I am telling you to stop drinking alcohol,” stated the bishop.
However, some individuals in Yambio, are criticizing the Free Alcohol Campaign, arguing that alcohol induces euphoria, relaxation, and disinhibition while reducing stress and anxiety.
On the other hand, the campaigner of AF Alcohol Anonymous highlights the long-term health risks associated with excessive alcohol use. Over time, it can lead to the development of chronic diseases and other serious problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems. It can also increase the risk of cancer in various parts of the body, such as the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, voice box, liver, colon, and rectum.
Dr. Teddy Bandima, who resides in the United States of America (US), spoke during an Alcoholic debate in the Western Equatoria Whatsapp group, emphasizing that there are restrictions and laws on selling alcohol. However, individuals who drink responsibly have no problem with the law.
“In addition, there are charity organizations such as Alcohol Anonymous that provide programs for those with addiction to quit drinking. I thank my brother Richard Ruati for raising awareness,” said Dr. Bandima.
