Illegal drug trafficking is emerging as a growing global issue, affecting both wealthy and developing nations, including those in the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
At the third high-level consultation meeting of the Eastern & Southern Africa Commission on Drugs (ESACD) in Zanzibar, officials expressed concern over the ineffectiveness of current measures to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse.
Despite some successes in countries like Tanzania, where policy reforms and preventive campaigns have been implemented, the illegal drug trade continues to thrive.
Key speakers at the meeting stressed the need for stronger regional efforts to address the harmful impact of drug trafficking on youth, including health problems, crime, and poverty.
Zanzibar’s President Hussein Mwinyi called for collective action across Africa to combat the rising threat of illicit drugs.
Former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe, ESACD Chairman, urged a shift from punitive drug policies to more humane, health-focused approaches.
The meeting highlighted the need for regional cooperation and new strategies to address the evolving challenges of drug trafficking and abuse.