The Silent Epidemic: Drug Abuse Among Uganda's Youth

OPINION – Drug abuse is becoming increasingly common in Uganda, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Among the substances raising concern is Khat, also known as Mairungi. Locally, it is called names such as Gomba, Mira, Aye and Gati. What was once seen as a harmless habit is becoming more visible among young people and other groups. Its open sale and use on streets, at workplaces and in communities should concern us all.

Mairungi leaves and buds are chewed mainly for their stimulating effects, including increased alertness and reduced tiredness. A 2025 Makerere University study involving 315 young people aged 18–35 found that 19.7% were mairungi chewers. The study linked the practice to peer pressure and the belief that chewing it is socially acceptable. Reports from regional referral hospitals have also shown rising cases linked to substance abuse, with mairungi and marijuana among the commonly reported substances. Security officials have further linked some groups of users to street theft and other offences.

Nationally, the picture is equally troubling. In 2024, the Uganda Police reported 2,240 cases related to narcotics and drugs, marking a 6 percent increase from 2,113 cases in 2023. Of these, 1,496 cases were taken to court, 264 were not proceeded with, and 480 were still under inquiry. A study conducted in Kampala slums and published in the National Library of Medicine in 2023 found that 34.9 percent of adolescents aged 14–19 years reported illicit drug use, and 16.1 percent were identified as high-risk alcohol users. Substance abuse is a leading contributor to mental health issues in Uganda.

Access to rehabilitation services remains a significant challenge. Facilities like Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital are often overwhelmed. Dr Juliet Nakku, the executive director of Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, reported last year that the facility often operates beyond its capacity, with patient numbers ranging from 800 to 1,000, despite having a capacity of 550. Many of these cases are linked to substance abuse and depression. Patients face obstacles such as long travel distances, limited resources, and social stigma.

The Uganda Harm Reduction Network (UHRN) highlights the need for a shift from criminalization to a public health approach, emphasizing counselling, education, and harm reduction strategies to support individuals struggling with addiction.

In my opinion, authorities should enforce existing laws on the production, sale and use of drugs. In August 2023, Parliament passed the Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Bill, 2023. This legislation allows for the licensed cultivation and use of marijuana strictly for medical purposes and imposes severe penalties for various drug-related offences, including property forfeiture, lengthy jail terms, and hefty fines. However, enforcement must be matched with prevention and support.

Boda boda associations should discourage riders from chewing while working, while passengers should also avoid riding with anyone who is actively chewing. Parents need to speak openly with their children about drug use. Schools, churches, mosques and community leaders should create safe spaces where young people can talk about peer pressure, stress, addiction and unemployment without fear of being judged.

The question is no longer whether drug abuse is visible in Uganda. It is whether we will act before its effects become harder to control. Our response should go beyond arrests and warnings. Young people need recreation, mentorship, skills, jobs and support when substance use becomes a problem. Farmers and traders who depend on mairungi also need practical alternatives. Uganda should act now. What we tolerate today will shape the community we leave for tomorrow.

Jaka Joice is a student of Makerere University Business School