On 20 May 2026, YONECO trained members of Mpapa Youth Club in the area of Traditional Authority (T/A) Jalasi in Mangochi on peace-building and social protection skills to help address the increasing cases of drug abuse in the area.
The session was organized in response to calls from parents and community leaders who bemoaned the problem, stating that it is consequently leading to an increase in cases of violence, teenage pregnancies, Sexually Transmitted Infections (#STIs) and juvenile delinquency.
During the session, participants expressed concern over the rising use of marijuana among minors and behavioural challenges affecting the youth in the area.
“As young people, we have a duty to help our peers to desist from drug and substance abuse, which is causing a lot of challenges in young people’s lives,” explained the Chairperson of Mpapa Youth Club.
The youth club members vowed to use their newly acquired skills to conduct awareness activities in schools and various spaces frequented by young people, to discourage drug abuse and encourage positive behaviour among children and young people.
