Lindokuhle Sobekwa

Mzwandile on rehabilitation, 2019

Nyaope Chapter II

Nyaope Chapter II is a continuation of the first Nyaope series and aims to examine the lives of some of Sobekwa’s earlier subjects in more intimate detail, examining the physical and psychological impact nyaope has on them individually as well as the effect of the drug on the community. Some of the subjects still live in the township; some are still smoking; some unfortunately have passed away. Another thread in this chapter is rehabilitation. Some individuals have gone to the countryside as a form of self-led rehabilitation; some have entered into professional rehabilitation programs. This chapter explores both. Sobekwa has also taken a more participatory approach, with some of his subjects making scrapbooks based on stories they have shared and images he has taken.

The Nyaope body of work is an ongoing project that will continue to explore this often neglected and maligned sector of society.