Strengthened Stakeholder Cooperation Needed to Combat Illegal Drug Trafficking
It has been emphasized that the cooperation and participation of stakeholders need to be strengthened to combat the use and illegal trafficking of dangerous drugs.
On July 1, 2024, in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority marked the International Day for the Prevention of Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. During the event, Ato Seyoum Wolde, Deputy Director General of the Drug Sector, highlighted the nation’s recognition of the serious drug problem and its on-going efforts to develop and implement a national drug control plan. He stressed the importance of continued collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the success of current and future plans.
Ato Seyoum noted that many families and communities are currently grappling with health crises stemming from preventable and treatable drug use. He reiterated his commitment to regulating the production, importation, distribution, and proper use of precursor chemicals to mitigate these issues.
During the forum, Ato Elias Kalayu, Executive Director of the Meqoamia Community Development Organization, detailed his organization’s initiatives to address addiction-related challenges on the ground.
The International Day for the Prevention of Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, celebrated annually on June 26, featured a panel discussion in Addis Ababa this year, underscoring the theme “Let’s Work on Prevention.”
