The streets of Rehoboth were filled with chants and an air of determination as the community staged a large-scale protest against the ongoing issue of drug abuse, which has plagued the town for years.
The residents marched through the main streets to demand action and raise awareness about the devastating impact drugs have had on their families and communities.
Levina Negongo, a mother grappling with the challenges of having a son addicted to drugs, took the lead in organising the march.
The protest aimed to shine a light on the urgent need for action and support in addressing the drug crisis.
Sharing her personal story, Negongo highlighted the struggles faced by families affected by this scourge.
"My son is addicted to drugs, and I decided that it's enough. I cannot work with people, and then, in the end, people expect healing from me as a social worker, but I am also struggling with the same concern. That's why I decided I was going to speak out, and I will see how the community receives and also how the community supports me; it is overwhelming to see, and I am so thankful."
Drug abuse has long been a critical issue in Rehoboth, with numerous families enduring the heartache of losing loved ones or witnessing their lives descend into the harsh world of drug use and its devastating consequences.
Parents and community leaders passionately voiced their concerns about the urgent need for stricter law enforcement, improved access to rehabilitation programs, and more community-driven initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of this crisis.
In a show of solidarity, church leaders also expressed their commitment to supporting the protest and joining the fight against drug abuse in the community.
"It is very important for the church to join such initiatives because spiritually we do not know what is happening in the outside world, and it's good to know that there are supportive people so that you can fight with love and fight this evil with love and tell them that God loves them and they should just redirect their ownership of their lives."
One protestor shared his frustration about why silence will kill the community, saying, "People, you are sitting in your homes; they are mobilising against this drug abuse in Rehoboth and drug dealership, and you are seated in your HOMES!! How can you be seated at your homes?"
The event saw a reasonable turnout from all walks of life, with young people, elders, and even local businesses joining the march.
Placards bearing slogans such as 'Drug abuse: a shortcut to nowhere, 'Say No to Drugs,' and 'Save Our Children' lined the streets as the march concluded with a prayer session.