Activists in Northern Bahr el-Ghazal State have raised concerns over increasing drug abuse among local youth, particularly the misuse of tramadol, a prescription painkiller easily obtained at pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals in Aweil and other towns.
Tramadol is a prescription opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain, including post-surgical pain, when other pain relievers are ineffective or not tolerated.
Prolonged use can lead to dependence or addiction. In some areas in South Sudan, the drug is distributed under strict regulations.
Under South Sudan’s Drug and Food Control Authority Act (2012), only licensed pharmacists, doctors, dentists, or veterinarians are permitted to prepare, prescribe, or dispense restricted medicines.
Several activists who spoke to Radio Tamazuj over the weekend urged the state government to take immediate action. They warned that youth under the influence of tramadol were engaging in violent and criminal behavior, including rape, looting, and killings.
Angelina Agau Thiep, an Aweil-based activist, said the drug’s impact was spreading in major towns and border areas with Sudan, leading to a rise in crimes.
“The use of tramadol is alarming in the state and along the borders, and youth end up committing other crimes,” Thiep said.
She criticized drug importers and security officials for failing to curb its illegal distribution.
Christopher Anei Deng, another activist, said tramadol abuse was contributing to youth criminality and deteriorating health. “They consume tramadol to fuel their criminal activities, but it leaves them unfit and unhealthy,” he said.
Lual Achuil Majok, a clinic worker in Aweil, said tramadol should only be dispensed with a prescription. However, he acknowledged that some pharmacies ignore regulations, selling drugs for profit without proper documentation.
Akook Garang Akook, a medical student at the University of Juba, warned that unsupervised tramadol use poses serious health risks. “Any drug taken without a prescription is abuse,” he said.
Bol Akuar Gamar, the state’s minister of culture, youth, and sports, said his office had urged the Health Ministry in 2024 to enforce responsible drug distribution. He pledged continued efforts to raise awareness about drug dangers.
The Health Ministry could not be reached for comment.