Leadnaija
Cameroon’s ongoing battle with illicit drug trafficking has reached alarming levels, particularly in its Lake Chad Basin region, as authorities continue to confront the surge in drug-related activities across the country.
During a recent address by Madame Gael Cécile Bécona, the Head of the Lake Chad Basin Office at a panelist session on ” curbing illicit drugs trafficking and drug abuse to prevent violent extremism” at the Forum on Friday in Maiduguri, she underscored the critical socio-economic and environmental factors fueling this growing crisis.Tap Here To Read Full Details
She said that Cameroon has become a major hub for drug traffickers, with porous borders and unchecked entry points contributing to the influx of illegal substances from neighboring countries like Nigeria, Chad, and the Central African Republic.
“These challenges are exacerbated by socio-economic instability, climate change, and a high unemployment rate, particularly among youth,”she said.
Madame Bécona highlighted the concerning statistic that 68% of those affected by drug trafficking in Cameroon are school-aged children between the ages of 19 and 32. The widespread availability of drugs, combined with a high school dropout rate and limited job opportunities, has created an environment ripe for exploitation by drug traffickers.
One of the key points discussed during her speech was the newly developed National Strategic Plan for Combating Drug Abuse (2024-2030). This comprehensive plan aims to address the drug epidemic by focusing on prevention, rehabilitation, repression, legislation, and international cooperation.
The government has partnered with civil society groups, healthcare organizations, and law enforcement agencies to raise awareness and help those struggling with addiction.
Notably, Madame Bécona emphasized the importance of preventive measures, which are central to the country’s approach. Community engagement is identified as a key strategy, with grassroots organizations working to educate the public on the dangers of drug abuse, particularly within vulnerable communities. These efforts are critical, as they aim to curb both the supply and demand for illicit drugs.
“Despite these efforts, challenges remain. The National Committee for the Fight Against Drugs, which has been operational since 1992, continues to work towards implementing preventive measures and improving the country’s rehabilitation capabilities.
However, a lack of adequate funding and resources for treatment centers remains a significant hurdle. The government is calling on international partners and financial institutions to support initiatives aimed at expanding rehabilitation centers and strengthening law enforcement agencies’ ability to detect new forms of illicit drugs, such as those currently circulating in schools disguised as candy.
Additionally, border security was identified as a major area requiring urgent attention, with Cameroon working closely with neighboring countries to improve monitoring and control of drug trafficking routes.
The need to reinforce border security forces and provide specialized training for drug detection was strongly emphasized, as these efforts are expected to significantly reduce the circulation of illicit drugs within the country.
Madame Bécona urged the public to break the silence surrounding this issue, calling it a significant social problem that affects all communities, regardless of background or location
