The alarming rate of drug abuse among young people is at an all-time high, jeopardizing both their future and the country’s overall well-being. Society has unfortunately normalized drug use, with bars, clubs, hotels, and restaurants providing spaces for smoking and other drug-related activities. Despite the seriousness of this issue, it is often ignored, and drug use has become a source of prestige among the youth.
Motivated by this pressing concern, Mr. Martin Tumukunde, a fourth-year MBChB student and the president of the Medical School at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, organized a run to raise awareness about drug abuse under the theme “Strides of Strength Against Drug Abuse.”
The event took place on September 21, 2024, when the Faculty of Medicine at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, through the MBUMSA association, spearheaded and organized an Awareness Run Against Drug Abuse. The event, held at the MUST pitch, attracted enthusiastic participation from students, staff, alumni, and administrators. The highlight of the day was the presence of renowned Ugandan music artist Fille Mutoni as the chief runner, who is passionate about creating awareness about drug abuse.
Fille inspired everyone with words like, “Save your life today and do not regret it later. Drugs deceive us, making us believe that we can run away from our problems and emotions. However, when you realize you are better than that, you can seek help. I acknowledge the counseling centers that provide invaluable support to addicted people. You help us regain our confidence.” She urged the students to have a reason to wake up and not disappoint those who have faith in them. As a musician, she has the platform to speak out, while students can talk to peers or counselors, which is never an easy step to take. Fille also encouraged the students to always watch out for each other and, when necessary, help them get help.
Mr. Bill Bekunda, the founder of the Bekunda Foundation, an addiction recovery initiative helping young people across the country, is a recovered addict and now a sobriety coach. He emphasizes that there is a fine line between dependence and addiction. It is crucial to recognize dependence before it escalates. If you need a drink to be able to do something, you are dependent. It’s important not to confuse social drinking with dependence.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, Associate Professor Charles Tushabomwe Kazoba, participated in the run and pledged full support from the administration. He requested the Dean to fully involve the University administration, stating, “Drug abuse is a serious issue, and as an administration, we want to be part of the campaign against it. We have heard about the purpose of the run and are more than ready to support it to save the future of our communities by saving the future leaders.”
The Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Associate Professor Joseph Ngonzi, acknowledged the efforts of the MBUMSA executive, led by Mr. Martin Tumukunde, for organizing such a meaningful event. The Dean emphasized the need for students to seek help to avoid spoiling their future and called for the campaign to spread throughout the university, including staff. “We all need help,” he said, “whether it’s drug addiction, alcohol abuse, or other harmful substances. This has cost us many youthful people who could have made a significant difference in the community.”
Ms. Daisy Arinda, the guild president of MUST, thanked the students for participating in the run despite their weekend plans and expressed gratitude to the administration for their support despite the short notice. She promised to take the campaign seriously.
Mr. Martin Tumukunde, the chief organizer and president of MBUMSA, acknowledged the support from his executive and the large number of students who participated. He thanked the sponsors of the run and the counseling centers that offered free services to raise awareness. He stated that the run was just the beginning of a campaign that would include one-on-one counseling sessions and school outreach programs, targeting ten schools.
Participants ran through the streets of Mbarara City, embracing the spirit of the cause. Afterward, the event continued with team-building activities and counseling sessions, reinforcing the importance of unity in the fight against drug abuse.
During the run, the top 3 winners were awarded as below:
The top three females were :
- Best Bonitah Nyesigye BBA I
- First runner up Hamida Namusoke BSE I
- Second Runners up Sarah Akiru from FAST
Males: No. 1 Kamurasi, Garasi was from the community
The inclusivty award was give to Mr. Rogers Nuwataho who finished the run yet physically challenged .The event also featured other games and sports, such as egg on the spoon, balloon water throwing, sprints, tug of war, and biking.
The run was generously supported by a variety of sponsors and partners, including Pepsi, Croozefm, Aquafina, Watoto, Ukara, Xenon Graphics, TASET, Red Cross, Star Medical Centre, YO-WORLD, and many others. Notably, organizations such as Ukara and YO-WORLD provided vital counseling services after the run, offering participants an opportunity to reflect on the event’s central message.
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Succeed We MUST
