Every year on June 26, the world marks the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADA) to raise awareness about the global impact of drug use and the importance of prevention.
The Origins of IDADA
The United Nations General Assembly established June 26 as IDADA in 1987 (resolution 42/112) to strengthen global cooperation on drug-related challenges. Over the years, the focus has shifted toward health-centered, science-backed prevention efforts.
This Year’s Theme: Invest in Prevention, Break the Cycle
The 2025 theme is: “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention. Break the Cycle.” #EndOrganizedCrimes. The United Nation Office of Drugs Control (UNODC) chose this theme as a campaign to highlight the need for coordinated long term action to break the cycle of substance use by addressing the root causes, investing in prevention and building stronger health, education and social systems. This year, St. Martin CSA, through its Mental Health Programme, commemorated the day in a vibrant and impactful event held at Oljororok Stadium. The event focused on students’ involvement and engagement from schools across Nyandarua West Sub-County, aligning with the Promoting Alternative Approaches to Drug Education (PAADE) Project, which emphasizes student empowerment and participation in substance prevention.
Student March for Awareness
The procession started from Chakareli Comprehensive School to Oljororok Stadium, and was flagged off by the Nyandarua West Sub-County Director of Education. Students marched with placards and music, voicing their commitment to end substance abuse. It was a vibrant demonstration of unity and purpose, as students and teachers together declared: the time for change is now.
Creative Advocacy
Performances took center stage. Through spoken word, poetry, dance, and music, students shared powerful reflections on the dangers of drug abuse:
“Drugs are like a knife that kills an entire life. Drugs are not cool; they make you a fool.” — Student, Weru Secondary School
“Educate schools, communities, and workplaces to fight drug abuse.” — Student, Oljororok Secondary School
These performances embodied the essence of evidence-based, age-appropriate prevention interventions, as recommended by the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC).
Collaboration at Every Level
The IDADA 2025 witnessed increased collaboration with other stakeholders including the Ministry of Education, Nyandarua County Government, Ministry of Interior, NACADA and Red Cross and the Ministry of Health. Speaker after speaker insisted on the need to support children who are affected by drug abuse by establishing strong support systems.
The Chief Officer for Education, Children, Gender affairs, Culture and Social Services Dr. Pachomius Wambugu during the IDADA reaffirmed support for prevention through ongoing partnerships, outreach, and policy advocacy noting that students need support in changing their lives.
Other speakers called for robust prevention systems and stronger support networks:
The Human Cost of Drug Use
Keynote Speaker, Mr. Job Githinji, a mental health professional and rehabilitation expert, shared real-life stories of the devastating effects of drug use:
“Young people today are in a rush to try drugs. My heart shatters when I see what drugs have done to so many lives. You do not need to try it to know how it can destroy your life.”
Drugs affect neurotransmitters by imitating, disrupting and increasing the release of them, impacting the communication between cells. A prolonged imbalance in brain chemicals can lead to change of structure in the brain. This can have lasting consequences on your brain function leading to cognitive deficits, emotional regulation issues and the increased risk of mental illness.
What We Learned from IDADA 2025
Prevention is possible when rooted in science and compassion
Students are powerful advocates when given platforms to lead
Partnerships between government, civil society, and schools are essential
Investing in prevention now means fewer lives lost later
