PASTORS ABANDON REAL HELP – DRUG ADDICTS AT RISK!

Livingstone’s National Assembly office is sounding the alarm: some pastors and self-styled “men of God” are choosing deliverance sessions over life-saving medical treatment for drug addicts.

Kerron Hanongo, Personal Assistant to MP Rodney Sikumba, slammed the trend at a Play Forward stakeholders meeting. “It’s disturbing that addicts are taken to pastors for spiritual fixes instead of proper medical care,” she declared. Hanongo pressed for training that would empower religious leaders to steer those in crisis toward professional healthcare and rehabilitation.

Divine Fire Cathedral’s Pastor Sam Majoni echoed the call for balance. In a candid interview, he broke addiction recovery down into three essentials: physical help, psychological counseling, and, only then, spiritual support. “Before we focus on deliverance, addicts need hospital detox and real counseling. Skipping these steps isn’t salvation—it’s harm,” he warned.

Pastor Majoni also cautioned that some religious leaders, eager to grow their congregations, risk worsening addicts’ conditions by misdiagnosing drug dependency as mere spiritual possession. “We must recognize the difference. Failing to refer addicts for proper medical care compromises their well-being,” he asserted.

The message is clear: religious institutions must partner with healthcare providers to tackle substance abuse head-on, ensuring that salvation doesn’t come at the cost of a life.

end

Comments

Zambia is not a dumping ground for dental amalgam

Livingstone University Teaching Hospital’s dental surgeon, Dr. Robin Mwewa, has raised critical concerns about the dangers of mercury in dental amalgam fillings. Speaking at a recent health forum, Dr. Mwewa detailed the adverse effects of mercury on human health and the environment, urging for greater awareness and action. Mercury, a key component in dental amalgam, has been used globally for over a century to treat cavities. Its introduction in dentistry originated in Europe, with countries like France and Britain pioneering its application. However, the long-term consequences of mercury exposure were not understood until much later. Health Risks Associated with Mercury Exposure Dr. Mwewa highlighted several health complications linked to mercury exposure from dental amalgam fillings: 1. Tremors: Mercury can cause involuntary muscle contractions, commonly affecting the legs. 2. Emotional Instability: Excessive merc...

Mara Moyo, a devoted daughter and extraordinary caregiver

CHALI MULENGA Livingstone Mara Moyo, a devoted daughter and extraordinary caregiver, has captured the hearts of many with her selfless commitment to her father's care. Her inspiring story of sacrifice and love sheds light on the profound impact of familial dedication and service to others. Mara, now 31, recounts her upbringing in Livingstone, Zambia, under the influence of her father, Joseph Moyo, a beacon of compassion and service. "I grew up seeing a father who gave his all for the benefit of others. I just wanted to be like him," she recalls. Mara's father dedicated his life to uplifting vulnerable members of society, from street children to sex workers, leaving an indelible mark on Mara's values and aspirations. Despite attending Nalituwe Primary School and David Livingstone High School, Mara's educational journey was intrinsically shaped by her father's impactful legacy rather than formal schooling. Mara fondly reminisces, "The foundation of m...

Gender-Based Violence Sparks Divorce: Woman Sues Husband for Endangering Her Life

After enduring gender-based violence in her marriage, a 38-year-old woman has chosen to file for divorce as her life is endangered by her 42-year-old husband. Eunice Hachikola sued Victor Namushi for divorce due to the persistent conflicts in their marriage. Hachikola stated that they married in 2003, with Namushi paying the full dowry of K3500. They have four children together. The marital issues began in 2008, exacerbated by their reliance on farming for livelihood. Hachikola asserted that Namushi sells their farm produce without her consent and fails to provide for the family. She detailed instances of physical abuse, expressing fear for her life, citing a severe beating that nearly proved fatal. Despite owning livestock, Namushi fails to utilize their benefits for the family's welfare. Hachikola, fearing for her safety, reported the matter to the headman, eschewing involving her uncle due to the severity of the abuse. She emphasized the necessity of divorce to escape the peri...

Chali Mulenga

Search This Blog