ISSUP Uganda, hosted by the Uganda Youth Development Link (UYDEL), in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), organised a Sports for Health Gala in the Kirombe slum area of Makindye Division, reaching more than 300 young people with important messages on drug use prevention, crime prevention, mental health, and healthy living.
The initiative highlighted the importance of prevention as a response to the growing challenges of drug use and crime among young people.
According to the UNODC World Drug Report 2025, an estimated 316 million people, representing about 6% of the global population aged 15 to 64 years, used drugs in 2023. This is the highest level ever recorded. The report also highlights that organised criminal networks continue to exploit vulnerable young people through drug trafficking, violence, and other forms of crime. These findings reinforce the importance of investing in early prevention initiatives that protect and empower young people.
Sport is recognised as an effective prevention tool because it creates safe and inclusive environments that promote resilience, discipline, teamwork, self-esteem, and positive peer relationships. These are important protective factors that help reduce the risk of drug use, violence, and criminal behaviour.
Through football and netball activities, participants not only engaged in friendly competition but also received important information and life skills to support informed decision-making and encourage healthy lifestyles.
ISSUP Uganda, UYDEL, and UNODC remain committed to investing in prevention initiatives that empower young people and contribute to healthier, safer, and drug-free communities.
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