By Arret Jatta
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) The Gambia, has launched a youth-led drug prevention initiative aimed at addressing the growing threat of substance abuse among young people.
The initiative was unveiled on Friday, 27th March, 2026, during a seminar and panel discussion held under the Japan Supplementary Budget (JSB) Project. The project, titled “Promoting Sustainable and Inclusive Peace in The Gambia through the Holistic Empowerment of Women and Youth,” was convened under the theme: “From Awareness to Action: Strengthening Youth-Led Drug Prevention.”
Speaking at the event, Deputy Director General of DLEAG, Sheriff Sanyang, emphasized the urgent need for collective action, describing drug abuse as a national challenge affecting homes, schools, and communities.
“The time for half measures is over; the time for decisive, inclusive, and urgent action is now,” he said.
Mr Sanyang reaffirmed DLEAG’s commitment to strengthening prevention and enforcement efforts through partnerships. He highlighted the importance of supporting youth-led initiatives, improving intelligence sharing, and enhancing forensic capacity to address emerging drug threats.
He also stressed the need for collaboration with the Ministry of Health and community actors to tackle the public health dimensions of drug abuse.
Representing the UNDP resident representative, Samba Jallow said the forum marked a critical step in safeguarding the future of young people. He noted that drug abuse remains one of the key drivers of instability identified in The Gambia’s Conflict and Development Analysis.
“With 77 per cent of the population under 35, empowering youth is not optional, it is essential for sustainable peace and development,” he stated.
Jallow added that the forum provides a platform for young people to actively contribute to solutions, rather than being passive participants in discussions about their future.
DLEAG Public Relations Officer, Dawda Sanyang, delivered a presentation outlining the current realities of drug and substance abuse among Gambian youth. He highlighted prevention gaps, community-level opportunities, and the need for stronger youth-led engagement.
Participants, including youth leaders and stakeholders from the West Coast and Lower River Regions, engaged in open discussions, raising concerns and seeking clarity on drug trafficking, abuse, and prevention strategies.
Key partners in the initiative include the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Youths and Sport, local authorities, and civil society representatives.
The forum concluded with a shared commitment to transform awareness into action, strengthen community resilience, and empower young people to lead the fight against drug abuse in The Gambia.
