In brief
In an emotional appeal, Zambian actor and filmmaker Owas Mwape has bravely confronted a social stigma by revealing his son's struggle with drug addiction. In a heartfelt Facebook post, the 52-year-old artist, renowned for his role in films like "Mwansa the Great," sought guidance from the public, aiming to shed light on the escalating drug issues facing Zambian families, often shrouded in silence.
Mwape, father to five sons and one daughter, expressed the urgent need for open discussions about such struggles, as he believes many parents hide their children's issues due to fear of stigmatization in Zambia's conservative society. "It’s out there and on our doorsteps. As long as you send your children to school, know that it could hit your household," he shared with the BBC.The turning point in Mwape's life came when his son Mayamiko, now 23, began engaging in theft, initially stealing approximately $3,000 from his father's bank account to support his drug use. The situation worsened when Mayamiko, overwhelmed by addiction, fled home just before his final-year exams, leaving his family in despair. Mwape described the painful transformation of his son, once lively and generous, now grappling with addiction that alters his personality completely.In discussions with his son, Mwape has encouraged him to seek help and pursue employment as part of his recovery. Despite the challenges, he remains hopeful and believes that change is possible for Mayamiko. However, the lack of clear communication about the substances involved has led Mwape to seek intervention for his son.Concerned about the wider implications of drug use in Zambia, Mwape turned to social media to connect with others facing similar dilemmas and to learn about effective rehabilitation options. He discovered an outpouring of concerns from parents across the nation, reflective of the broader drug epidemic which the country has long kept under wraps.Filmmaking remains a way for Mwape to address societal issues, evident in his recent production "Girls 2 Ladies," which approaches the topic of drugs in boarding schools. Mwape has partnered with Zambia’s Drug Enforcement Commission and advocates for a shift in the approach to drug addiction—from punitive measures to rehabilitation, emphasizing the need for dedicated treatment facilities to combat the increasing drug abuse among the youth.According to Nason Banda, head of the Drug Enforcement Commission, there has been a staggering 300% increase in reported drug abuse cases over the last decade, driven by broken families, easy access, and peer pressure. Banda underscores the importance of targeted interventions to deal with the root causes of addiction.Mwape’s story resonates with many, as he champions the need for openness about addiction—a journey he hopes will lead not only to healing for his family but will also empower others in Zambia to confront their challenges without fear. "Sometimes, battles are never won by simply getting into battle - battles are won by employing strategy," he reflects, expressing his determination to see Mayamiko reclaim his life from addiction. For many, Mwape’s courageous stance serves as a beacon of hope, proving that through understanding and support, the cycle of addiction can be broken.
