The African Union (AU) recently held a high level session on drug use, substances use amongst youth, women and children. The session was held at Mulungushi International Conference Centre from 8th to 10th of November, 2023 under the theme: Securing a better future for youth, women and children: Building momentum towards the Africa we want.
The high level session was opened by the Vice President of the Republic of Zambia HE W.K Mutale Nalumango and attended by the World Health Organisation Director General( virtually)HE Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus minister of Health-Zamba Hon Sylvia Masebo , Minister of Home Affairs and internal Security-Zambia Hon Jack Mwimbu, other senior government officials from member states, Africa CDC Unit lead on NCDs, Injuries and mental health Dr Adelard Kakunze Heads of International organisations, international and local civil sociaties.
The Resident Doctors Association of Zambia were delighted to be part of the high level session and thanks the African Union, Ministry of health Zambia, Ministry of Home affairs and Internal Security and other relevant organisers for hosting this historical event in Lusaka, Zambia.
The Lusaka, AU declaration on drug use and substance use was adopted at the end of the three days engagements amongst the delegates from different walks of life.
Important in the declaration was the need to reinforce stakeholder collaboration and for countries to implement already formulated policies on alcohol use and drug use, need to revisit strategies used by other Countries and to learn from what other Countries are doing.
Dr Joseph Mutambo, RDAZ public health Chairperson reechoed the need for a multi-sectoral approach in curbing this silent outbreak and that policies that are youth, child and gender sensitive must be put in place and the process of implementation and evaluation must involve all sectors including the media, traditional leaders, local government authorities, ALL government ministries and institutions, NGOs and Civil Society Organisations.
The Resident Doctors Association of Zambia are looking forward to being part of the implementation process of the Lusaka, AU declaration and recommendations.
For God and Country
