2nd July 2024.
We were privileged to attend the African Hearing on Drug Use Prevention, organised by the World Federation Against Drugs (WFAD), Proyecto Hombre, Uganda Youth Development Link (UYDEL), and the Africa Youths Initiative on Crime Prevention (AYICRIP).
Drug use and its related challenges are on the rise across the African continent, particularly among the youth. This is because of contributing factors that include poverty, unemployment, urbanization, social media influence, and peer pressure.
The summit emphasised the importance of evidence-based prevention as a critical and necessary strategy to protect young Africans from drug-related issues. This approach relies on scientifically proven strategies and interventions that are effective, efficient, and sustainable in reducing or preventing substance abuse. The speakers expressed strong support for the Declaration of Oviedo, recognizing its vital role in promoting evidence-based prevention in Africa and fully endorsing its principles.
Prevention was highlighted as the most effective method to reduce the overall prevalence and impact of drug use. It is cost-effective, reduces the burden on treatment systems, lowers the risk of addiction, keeps children in school, and decreases long-term health problems, violence, and crime.
The summit also addressed significant challenges faced by many African countries in preventing drug use, including inadequate funding for prevention resources, treatment, and rehabilitation programs; a lack of commitment and investment from governments and policymakers; and insufficient policies, research, and systematic data collection.
It was recommended that all prevention efforts should align with the UNODC and WHO International Standards on Drug Use Prevention. Additionally, the 2022 Cairo Declaration on Addressing Drug Use and Substance Use Disorders among Women, Youth, and Children, along with the 2023 Lusaka Declaration released during the African Union High-Level Session on Addressing Substance Use and Related Mental Health Disorders Among Youth, Women, and Children, were highlighted as essential instruments for guiding drug use prevention across the continent.
The African Hearing on Drug Use Prevention summit showed the urgent need for comprehensive, evidence-based strategies to combat the rising tide of drug use among youth in Africa. As challenges persist, it is clear that collaborative efforts guided by international standards and declarations are crucial to creating a drug-free future for the continent.
By prioritizing prevention, investing in resources, and committing to sustained action, African nations can protect their young populations and build healthier, safer communities.
Prepared by C-Sema's Communications Team.