There is life after rehab
The Etwatwa resident said he saw the light after overcoming his drug addiction and wishes to inspire others to stay clean.
As National Drug Awareness Week, observed from June 24 to 30, drew to a close, the Benoni City Times spoke to Bafana Mnguni (26) from Emaphupheni, Etwatwa, who shared his journey of breaking free from substance abuse.
He marks 17 months of sobriety.
“I started smoking my dad’s cigarette butts and then progressed to dagga, Mandrax, nyaope and even cocaine at times,” Mnguni revealed.
He said his addiction began in high school aged 18, and he recalls experiencing physical side effects then, including stomach cramps, fatigue and anger.
“I resorted to stealing items at home and school to fund my habit and was eventually suspended from school because I was bunking classes and stealing other children’s stationery. My parents then intervened and sent me to a drug rehabilitation centre.”
Efforts to get him clean proved unsuccessful twice until Mnguni’s most recent rehabilitation, which he undertook willingly with the support of his family.
Now a volunteer at Joy Clinic in Etwatwa, contributing to the Rise and Shine programme, he is determined to help others stay on the path to recovery.
“Quitting drugs seemed impossible at some point, but eventually, when I told myself I needed to stop, it was achievable,” he said.
He envisions a future in entrepreneurship, using the skills he acquired at Xilembeni Projects to start a business manufacturing detergents and cleaning products.
Mnguni expressed gratitude to his family for their unwavering support throughout his recovery.
Adelaide Motete, a health promoter at Joy Clinic, praised him for his dedication to the support group, adding that the community must remember there is help for all the addicts at local clinics.
“Bafana has been a pillar of strength. His methods have proved effective in inspiring others,” she said.
Mnguni offered heartfelt advice to those battling with addiction.
“Reflect on where you are now versus where you want to be. Change is possible with a positive mindset and determination.”
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