This multicentre randomised controlled study evaluated a 3-year intersectoral intervention designed to reduce alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis use among adolescents in a tri-border region of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. The intervention brought together 23 institutions from education, community, and social sectors and involved 880 adolescents, with treatment and control groups randomly assigned. Students in the treatment group were actively involved in co-developing prevention activities, while both groups later participated in the implemented activities.
The AUC convened a Drug Control Technical Experts Meeting in Maputo to review progress under the AUPA 2019–2025 and shape the next continental drug strategy. ISSUP, represented by Joanna Travis-Roberts and A/Prof Goodman Sibeko, contributed to discussions on strengthening both drug supply and demand reduction. Delegates highlighted persistent challenges, including limited capacity, weak data systems, and uneven access to treatment across Member States. The draft AU Drug Strategy 2026–2033 proposes ten strategic pillars centred on public health, data integration, youth engagement, coordinated governance, and addressing harms related to substance use disorders. ISSUP reaffirmed its commitment to capacity building, youth and community engagement, network strengthening, and improved data collection through tools such as the Web App ASSIST.