An Assessment Of The Effects Of Drug Abuse On The Youth In Uganda A Case Study Of Mutumba Sub County

ABSTRACT

Drng abuse among the youth is the major problem facing the world today. In order to

understand the effects for adolescent substance abusive behavior, various theoretical

perspectives were utilized and strategies to curb drng abuse among the youth were also

identified. The study was conducted in the areas of Mutumba Subcounty, Namayingo

district in Uganda. The pmiicipants included 12 male and 4 female adolescents, whose

ages ranged from 12 years to 22 years. A qualitative, explorative research design was

employed. Data was gathered using semi-structured interviews, questionnaires and

observations. The study found that substances abused by the participants include; alcohol,

nicotine, khat "Mairnngi". cannabis and heroin and the most affected areas included

Bulule, Mutumba, Mwema, Buchimo, among others. Their reasons for using these

substances include individual, family and environmental factors. However, peer group

pressure was identified as the primary factor for adolescent substance use and abuse. This

study emphasized the painful nature of drug abuse among the youth, yet at the same time

it succeeds in highlighting the strategies that can be employed to address drug abuse

among the youth. In addition, this study recommends a concerted effort by all the

stakeholders in addressing the substance abuse problem.