Ghetto dwellers in Mukono municipality have been warned against excessive drug abuse.
During the campaign aimed at transforming the lives of ghetto dwellers directed by the Blue Cross Uganda-Mukono branch, several residents are oriented on a need to animate a sober life.
Sarah Ntende an official from Blue Cross acknowledged the efforts by the ghetto leadership to have organized societies but advised on the need to limit drug abuse.
“Hazardous use of psychoactive substances such as alcohol and illicit drugs result in negative health consequences such as infectious diseases, accidents, family problems, and legal issues,” Ntende emphasized.
The former chief finance officer-CFO of Mukono municipality, Steven Kavuma urged youths languishing in ghettos to consider re-uniting with families and also embrace Christ for life restoration.
“Some of you left your families that dearly cared for you and today you’re here battling with forces of the earth to find survival but my only appeal to you is to reconnect with Jesus Christ and your families as well to have your future redefined” Mr. Kavuma noted.
Robermz Mugoya, the defense secretary for Benghazi Ghetto situated between Kitega and Anthony Cells in Mukono Central division appeals to the government to extend development projects to their communities.
According to him, over time, many ghetto dwellers have changed their mindset to becoming responsible and better persons but high rates of poverty push them to commit crimes.
“Many youths who engage in criminal acts are mostly frustrated and hopeless but we urge government and other implementing partners like Blue Cross to initiate ghetto youths into job forums to reduce idleness.” Mugoya reasoned.
Currently, Mukono district has 160 registered ghettos with over 80 in Mukono municipality.
Ssalongo Dick Mazinga, one of the district ghetto commandants says the majority of the dwellers hardly get a single meal a day which complicates their way of living.
“Ghettos description changed from harbouring criminals, we’re still bound by the supreme law of the land. If we find you engaging in criminal acts resulting from drug and substance abuse we’ll surely coordinate with security to have you prosecuted” Mazinga warned ghetto dwellers before asking them to embrace the available government programs.
English 