26/04/2026
On the 25th of April 2026, youths from the Foni Bondali District took part in an engaging dialogue organised by the United Nations Development Programme, with support from the people of Japan, held at the The Gambia Teachers’ Union Co_operative Credit Union Hall in Brikama.
The dialogue focused on Youth Regional Sensitization on Drug Abuse Prevention and Positive Coping. An insightful panel discussion was held with high-profile panelists, including representatives from the The Gambia Police Force, the Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) West Coast Region Commissioner, the WCR Youth Committee Chairman, the WCR Red Cross Chairman, and a health professional. They highlighted various ways to curb the menace of drug abuse within the region and shared strategies on how to move from awareness to more action-oriented approaches in hotspot communities. Emphasis was also placed on reducing the burden of mental health challenges, loss of productive time, and the financial strain associated with drug abuse.
Participants raised numerous questions, many of which were directed to the DLEAG Commissioner. Key concerns included the need for a rehabilitation centre, increased involvement of the agency in awareness creation, and stronger efforts to track and address drug networks operating behind the scenes.
The event concluded with group practical discussions, presentations, and a drama performance aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
