26/06/2026
FYI.
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As the world observes 26th June as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Mr. Mamour M. Mbenga, widely known as Kifa Barham, the official Brand Ambassador of the Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) The Gambia, has issued a compelling call for a unified national front to combat the escalating drug epidemic.
In a statement marking World Drug Day 2026, Mr. Mbenga underscored the theme for this year: "World drug problem: persisting issues, new challenges, innovative responses." He urged all sectors of Gambian societyβincluding young people, civil society organizations, parents, religious leaders, and policymakersβto work cohesively to address the high-risk factors fueling substance abuse and related violence across the country.
A Decade of Grassroots Intervention
With over a decade of experience as a community youth leader and agent of change, Mr. Mbenga has been at the forefront of street-level engagement and rehabilitation efforts.
His initiatives have focused on prevention and drug demand reduction, often in collaboration with DLEAG, the Ministry of Interior, and international partners such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and ECOWAS.
"We must shift our approach from punitive measures to addressing the root causes of addiction," Mr. Mbenga stated. "I am grateful that DLEAG officials are increasingly encouraging drug demand reduction strategies, which are essential to fighting the epidemic at its source rather than solely enforcing legal punishment."
A Personal Journey of Redemption
Mr. Mbengaβs advocacy is deeply rooted in his personal transformation. A former addict himself, he has become a national role model, having voluntarily mentored dozens of reformed addicts who are now skilled professionals in fields such as graphic design, welding, IT engineering, carpentry, and maritime operations.
"Over the years, I have voluntarily engaged dozens of young people who were once addicts. They are now fully reformed and engaged in various skills programs. Many are graphic designers, welders, IT engineers, carpenters, seamen, and professionals in the commercial industry," he noted.
Beyond his ambassadorial role, Mr. Mbenga is a journalist, sports scientist, corrective exercise specialist, and an able-bodied seaman working with international maritime vessels. He is also the founder and CEO of Africa Citizen Radio, Gorilla Sports Fitness, and Africa Sports Agency. Through his community youth development programs, he has sponsored over 200 young Gambians to pursue IT courses and vocational training.
Global and Regional Imperatives
Aligning with the UNODC-led global campaign, Mr. Mbenga called on regional governments and narcotic agencies to prioritize the following:
1. Investing in Prevention: Scaling science-based education and social inclusion programs to reduce substance use disorders.
2. Combating Organized Crime: Disrupting transnational trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable populations.
3. Promoting People-Centered Services: Eliminating stigma and expanding voluntary, community-based treatment services, particularly as The Gambia prepares to launch its own national rehabilitation center.
A Call to Families and Youth
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Mbenga urged parents to intensify home-based mentoring and corrective behavioral guidance. He also appealed directly to young people to pursue skills development and avoid crimes and domestic violence, warning that such actions carry serious legal repercussions and can derail their future careers.
"Get skills, stay away from crime, and avoid situations that could cause serious harm to your life and career," he advised. "The power to change our communities lies in our collective hands."
About DLEAG and World Drug Day
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is commemorated annually on June 26th to strengthen global action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse. The Gambiaβs DLEAG, under the Ministry of Interior, continues to partner with regional and international bodies to advance evidence-based and compassionate drug policies.
Kifa Barham
QTV Gambia
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