‘Rhythm City’ looks into abuse of the drug nyaope

THE scourge of nyaope recently saw Rhythm City introducing the drug into its storyline.

Playing the role of a young user is Mthatha-born actor Nkosiphendule Cengani.

The City Varsity student, 20, made his debut on the e.tv drama series last year. When he first joined the show he was introduced as Kop Khuse’s boxing protégé.

Cengani’s character, Emmanuel, is a youngster who grew up without a mother. His father is an alcoholic who is arrested, leaving his son to fend for himself.

Emmanuel is introduced to the cheap drug, also known as whoonga, which has taken over in many parts of the country, by his friend Sabelo (Ishmauel Songo).

“Emmanuel is a troubled young kid. His poor judgment in choosing friends sees him getting involved in nyaope,” Cengani said.

The young actor said he had to do a lot of research for the role.

“I’ve seen people who smoke nyaope on the streets but I didn’t know much about it.

“I started watching videos and engaging with smokers. When I was at home in Mthatha in December I was engaged with a lot of smokers,” he said. Cengani said he also met a street kid who was a nyaope user.

“I spent time with him to understand what goes on in the mind of a drug user.

“Some nyaope addicts take care of themselves, while others are always dirty. Apparently when they bath they get sober. That’s why they are always filthy,” he said.

Cengani said the drug was highly addictive and users in most cases became involved in crime.

“This drug affects a person not only mentally but physically. They start to waste away.”

Cengani said Rhythm City viewers should expect to see some change in Emmanuel in the coming weeks.

“There is hope for Emmanuel. I can’t say much, but this won’t last forever,” he said. Catch Rhythm City every weekday on e.tv at 7pm.