The Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development (HHS) of the African Union Commission organized the continental youth forum on drug use prevention from 06 – 10 November, as a side event to the High Level Session on Addressing Substance Use and related Mental Health Disorders among Youth, Women and Children scheduled from 08 – 10 November.
Minister for Youth, Sport and Arts of the Republic of Zambia, Honourable Elvis Nkandu (MP) officially opened the first ever continental youth forum on drug use prevention. He emphasized the Republic of Zambia’s commitment to supporting youth development, combatting drug abuse and trafficking, and the important role of youth in drug use prevention. Minister Nkandu also highlighted the potential for collaborative partnerships between youth and adults in solving these problems.
Dr. Olubusayo Akinola, the Head of Division for Social Welfare, Drug Control and Crime Prevention, expressed optimism about the knowledge exchanges and commitment from the young participants. The youth consultation is particularly important as it coincides with Africa Youth Month, with the theme: “1million Next Level is Knocking: Youth-led Movement that Transcends Borders”, recognizing the significant contributions of Africa’s youth to the continent’s development.
The youth forum aims to focus on developing drug use prevention interventions, ensuring access to evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation services. It also recognizes the need for further strengthening supply reduction efforts, as outlined in pillar III of the AU Plan of Action on Drug Control and Crime Prevention.
The first ever youth consultation on drug use prevention in Africa was attended by youth leaders from AU member states, youth trainers from across the globe and youth activists from the Republic of Zambia.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).