East African Youth Urged to Lead Fight Against Drug Abuse

Young people in East and Central Africa must take on a leading role in combating drug abuse, acting as ambassadors to educate their communities and actively participate in control initiatives. This call to action came from Aretas Lyimo, Commissioner General of the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA), at the closing of the East African Youth Forum on Drugs (EAYFD) 2026 in Arusha.

Lyimo emphasized that youth are a vital force in reducing drug use and should be integral to finding sustainable solutions to this challenge, which impacts economic development and social well-being. He urged them not to see themselves solely as targets of anti-drug programs but as active partners in creating and executing effective strategies. "Go now and be ambassadors for these fights in your communities," he stated.

The forum, themed 'Accelerating the Reduction of Drug Demand Among East African Youth,' convened more than 200 young leaders from 12 nations. Forum coordinator Halima Omar highlighted the objective of exchanging experiences, discussing challenges, and enhancing youth influence in drug control policy formulation. Participants like George Ochieng from Kenya reported gaining practical knowledge and skills to become change leaders in the anti-drug fight at community, national, and regional levels.

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You should not be seen as the sole targets of anti-drug programs, but as partners in designing and implementing sustainable solutions. Go now and be ambassadors for these fights in your communities.