By Kerina Mujati
…Gogo needs help with alcoholism, not cheap plaudits and handouts
In a society grappling with the pervasive challenges of alcohol and substance misuse, it is disheartening to witness the elevation of Gogo Lady Nyathi as a cultural icon, affectionately dubbed “Gogo yaka jamuka pataundi.”
This portrayal, amplified by figures like DJ Ollah and various radio platforms, risks glossing over the harsh realities of her behaviour, presenting a troubling narrative that normalises deviance under the guise of charisma. Have we, as a nation, strayed so far from our values that we now celebrate conduct that undermines the very fabric of our societal norms?
Gogo Lady Nyathi openly boasts of her time at Remand Prison, framing her petty criminality and social ostracism as badges of honour. She derides those who choose faith and community, dismissing their values while failing to introspect on why such individuals distance themselves from her. The truth is stark: her actions fall short of the maturity and responsibility expected of an adult in our society. By condemning believers, she sidesteps accountability for her behaviour, which starkly contrasts with the standards of decorum and respect we hold dear.
More concerning is her cavalier admission of fostering promiscuity, likening her home to a brothel and proudly claiming to “give base.” Such statements not only glorify reckless behaviour but also erode the moral compass we strive to instil in our youth.
While moderate drinking is a personal choice, Gogo Lady Nyathi’s unapologetic celebration of alcoholism sets a dangerous precedent. In a society yearning for role models who impart wisdom and hope, particularly for young people navigating the perils of substance misuse, her actions offer little more than a cautionary tale wrapped in misplaced admiration.
Across the globe, individuals like Gogo Lady Nyathi, whose struggles with alcoholism are evident, are often deemed beyond rehabilitation by systems like the NHS, where resources are prioritised over repeated interventions for those unwilling to change. The cycle of dependency, coupled with a refusal to seek help, leads to a grim reality, a life teetering on the edge of collapse, awaiting the inevitable consequences of alcohol withdrawal.
Yet, instead of addressing this with the gravity it demands, we see media platforms amplifying her story as entertainment, with figures like DJ Ollah seemingly complicit in this troubling narrative. Why do we glorify such a figure, whose actions offer no substantive wisdom or guidance?
Our society must confront this paradox. Celebrating an adult who fails to embody the virtues of responsibility and wisdom… while openly endorsing promiscuity and substance abuse… sends a damaging message to our youth.
The allure of cheap donations and fleeting fame, often tied to exploitative agendas, only deepens this crisis. It perpetuates a cycle of hopelessness, diverting attention from the real issues of resource exploitation and the destruction of our young people’s potential through drugs and alcohol.
Drinking, in itself, is not the issue; alcoholism, however, is not glamorous. It is a devastating force that erodes lives and communities. Gogo Lady Nyathi’s story, rather than being celebrated, should prompt reflection on how we uplift those who inspire hope and resilience. As a society, we must ask ourselves, where do we stand when we allow such figures to be lionised? True wisdom lies not in sensationalism but in fostering a future where our youth are empowered to rise above such destructive influences, There is no Lady or Gogo wisdom to write home about; we must question what we stand for.
