International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

PRESS STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
26 June 2026

International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

As the world marks the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Development Through Media (DTM) joins the global community in observing this year’s theme: “The world drug problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”

In Kenya, drug and substance abuse remains a growing threat to peace, public health, and the future of young people. From urban informal settlements to coastal communities and border towns, many young people continue to face the risks of addiction, trafficking networks, unemployment, hopelessness, and mental health struggles. These realities call for urgent, innovative, and community-led responses.

DTM believes that building peace in a society where young people are at risk of drug abuse requires more than enforcement. It demands prevention, honest public education, family and community support systems, access to treatment and rehabilitation, and meaningful opportunities that restore dignity and hope to young people.

We call on government, schools, families, faith leaders, civil society, the media, and young people themselves, to work together in addressing the root causes of drug abuse and protecting the next generation from exploitation and harm.

A peaceful and just society is one that safeguards its young people, supports recovery, and invests in their future.

Signed:

Ms Dommie Yambo-Odotte,
Executive Director and Producer
Development Through Media (DTM)
“Empowering Communities Through Information, Participation, and Social Transformation.”

For Media Inquiries contact:
Communications Desk
Email: info[at]dtmafrica.com
Website: https://www.dtmafrica.com; https://radiobaraza.org

About DTM
Development Through Media (DTM) is a pioneer media-based, not-for-profit Civil Society Organisation (M-CSO) in Kenya, dedicated to harnessing the power of media and communication for inclusive and transformative development. Through partnerships, capacity building, content creation, dissemination and advocacy, DTM empowers citizens—including youth and marginalised communities in the rural and urban areas—to actively participate in shaping the social, economic, and political decisions that affect their lives.