A Drug-Free Society: Mwangaza Takes on the Substance Abuse Crisis
The strength of any community lies in its youth. When that strength is eroded by drugs, the effects ripple across every household — through school dropouts, teenage pregnancies, crime, and a future robbed of its potential.
In Kabondo East Ward, communities along the Sondu Miriu River have faced decades of marginalisation. Poverty, lack of electricity, blocked roads and limited economic opportunities have left many young people vulnerable. For too long, alcohol, bhang and tobacco have filled the gap — with devastating consequences for families and for the future of the region.
On 5 September 2025, Mwangaza launched a community awareness campaign — “A Drug-Free Society” — bringing together youth, young couples, and community members for a targeted education session on the effects of substance abuse.
The session covered:
- The physical and mental health consequences of substance abuse
- The link between drug use and school dropouts, teenage pregnancies, and crime
- Community-based strategies to support young people away from drugs
- The economic opportunity that awaits communities when their youth are empowered
Twenty-five participants attended, supported by resource persons, community mobilisers, and local facilitators. The campaign was a direct action under Mwangaza’s Economic Empowerment and Health Education programmes.
This is one step in a longer journey. Mwangaza will continue to run awareness campaigns, work with young people, and advocate for the economic and infrastructure investments that give communities a real alternative to despair.
Together, we build a drug-free future.
