Mr. Chidong Tuel

Energy drinks have become a staple of daily life in South Sudan. From students and workers to boda-boda riders pushing through long shifts, these colorful cans are everywhere. However, our society has a recurring habit: when a new trend arrives, we often embrace it to the point of excess.

We saw this pattern decades ago. When the SPLM/A began receiving earnings for the first time, many shifted rapidly from traditional brews like marisa to potent spirits and “Uganda Waragi.” The result was a sudden wave of health and social issues. There is even a famous—though perhaps exaggerated—story of a man whose eyes supposedly failed him after consuming too much hard liquor. While the details may be folklore, the warning was clear.

Today, the trend has shifted toward energy drinks, often mixed with other substances like Tramadol. I used to enjoy these drinks myself; they taste good and provide a quick boost. But I eventually had to ask: what is this constant stimulation doing to my heart and mind?

Most of these drinks rely on caffeine to block adenosine—the brain chemical that tells us we are tired. While a cup of coffee is generally safe, the danger lies in the dose. Many South Sudanese youths ignore the warning labels on the cans, consuming five or more bottles a day. This leads to anxiety, heart strain, and a physical dependence that borders on addiction.

I personally avoid alcohol and cigarettes, but the abuse of these “soft” stimulants is just as concerning. If these drinks were removed from shelves tomorrow, I believe many of our youth would resemble “zombies,” unable to function without their daily fix.

This is not a call for a ban, but a call for awareness. We must educate ourselves on what we are putting into our bodies. Energy should come from rest and nutrition, not from a can that keeps the heart in a constant state of alarm.

The author is a concerned South Sudanese citizen. He can be reached via email at t.chidu9@gmail.com or on Facebook at Chidu T.

Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Eye Radio. The author is solely responsible for the accuracy of all claims made.