NELSON K
Local leaders in Nyakishenyi Sub-County, Rukungiri District, have expressed concern over the increasing hooliganism among boys and rising cases of domestic violence, which they attribute to the legal farming and trade of marijuana and other dangerous drugs in the area.
According to the Nyakishenyi LC3 Chairperson, Wednesday Twinomujuni, there has been a surge in hooliganism and the formation of gang groups among young boys, many of whom are engaging in drug-related activities such as using marijuana. He added that idle activities like gambling games have negatively impacted schoolchildren, leading to increased dropout rates and shattered future aspirations. He further criticized the local police for their negligence, citing a lack of regular patrols that could help curb gang activities. Twinomujuni also noted that the police face manpower shortages, with only two or three officers stationed in some areas, which has allowed gang groups to thrive.
Arineitwe Isdol, the Kacence Parish Councillor, also expressed frustration with the situation while speaking to a Boona Radio reporter. He pointed out that drugs like marijuana and “mairungi” are being grown and sold openly under the guise of being medicinal. This, he said, has provided freedom for the expansion of gang groups and the rise in domestic violence. Arineitwe criticized parents for their negligence in allowing marijuana cultivation on their farms and called on the government to imprison drug farmers and dealers in Nyakishenyi communities.
Laurence Mukara, the Katonya Parish Councillor, echoed these concerns, lamenting the increase in drug abuse, alcoholism, and idle activities like playing pool and “matatu” among young boys and idle men. He attributed these activities to the formation of gang groups, domestic violence, and theft in the area. Mukara urged fellow local leaders to cooperate in sensitizing both the young and old residents about the dangers of idleness while prioritizing wealth creation initiatives. He also condemned young boys for stealing their parents’ property and farm produce to fund drug use and gambling.
Tumwesigye Bonifance, the Murama Parish Councillor, noted that drug abuse is not limited to the youth, as even some women are now reportedly using some of these drugs. He called on parents to work closely with local leaders to combat these vices and eliminate domestic violence from their communities.
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