In commemoration of World Drug Day 2025, the Uganda Youth Development Link - UYDEL (ISSUP Uganda), in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Kampala Office, organized a vibrant community sports event at the Acholi Quarters playground in Banda. The event brought together hundreds of young people in a powerful demonstration of unity, awareness, and commitment to living drug-free.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Hafsa Lukwata, Head of the Mental Health Division at the Ministry of Health, and Dr. Kasirye Rogers, Executive Director of UYDEL and National Chapter Lead (ISSUP Uganda), urged the youth to embrace healthy lifestyles and resist the pressures of drug use. They emphasized that drug abuse not only harms individuals but also fuels organized crime, violence, and exploitation in communities.
“Every time drugs are bought, money often ends up in the hands of criminal networks,” said Dr. Lukwata. “Living drug-free is not only a personal choice for health and safety; it’s a powerful act of resistance against trafficking and crime.”
Through engaging sports activities and interactive sessions, the event highlighted the theme that "Saying no to drugs is also saying no to violence, trafficking, and exploitation." Youth participants were encouraged to become ambassadors of prevention and peer support within their communities.
Dr. Kasirye reaffirmed UYDEL’s commitment to empowering young people with the knowledge, life skills, and safe spaces they need to make positive choices. “This day is a reminder that prevention works and that young people are central to building a drug-free Uganda,” he noted.
World Drug Day, officially known as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, is observed annually on June 26 to raise global awareness about the impact of drug abuse and the importance of collaborative solutions.
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