UNAFRI to Host Fifth AYCPP Discussion on Drugs in Africa: Criminalisation Vs Rehabilitation

The United Nations African Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders (UNAFRI) will host the fifth session of the African Youth Crime Prevention Platform (AYCPP) on Friday, 10 July 2026, continuing its weekly X Spaces series that brings together experts and young people to discuss emerging crime prevention and criminal justice issues across Africa.

This week's discussion, "Drugs in Africa: Criminalisation Vs Rehabilitation," will examine how African countries can balance law enforcement, rehabilitation and harm reduction in responding to drug use, trafficking and substance abuse. The conversation will explore practical approaches that protect communities while supporting recovery and reducing reoffending.

Meet the Panel

The discussion will be moderated by John Vianny Ayebare, Legal and Research Officer at UNAFRI.

AYCPP Session 5 – Meet the Host & Panel

Joining him are:

• Amaka Cordelia Ekwalor Esq. (Nigeria) – Deputy Zonal Commander, Advocacy & Engagement, NDLEA Zone 11, Enugu, Nigeria, leading public awareness and drug demand reduction initiatives.

• CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu (Nigeria) – Official Spokesperson and Force Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Police Force, bringing a law enforcement perspective on drug-related crime.

• Amb. Christiana Maka Togba (Liberia) – Founder and Executive Director of Girls Against Drug Liberia (GADL), advocating for drug prevention, youth empowerment and community awareness.

• ACP Godwin Tumugumye (Uganda) – Head of the Anti-Narcotics Department, Criminal Investigations Directorate, Uganda Police Force, leading investigations into narcotics trafficking.

• Katende Dan (Uganda) – Research & Documentation Officer at the Uganda Harm Reduction Network, specialising in evidence-based drug policy and harm reduction.

Join the Conversation

Whether you're a student, policymaker, researcher, justice sector practitioner or simply interested in Africa's evolving approach to drug policy, this session offers an opportunity to hear diverse perspectives and engage directly with experts working in the field.

Topic: Drugs in Africa: Criminalisation Vs Rehabilitation

Date: Friday, 10 July 2026

Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM (EAT)

Platform: X Spaces via @UNAFRI21

Listen to the Previous Session

Missed Session 4: Human Trafficking in Africa – Survivors, Systems and Solutions?

Listen to the full X Spaces recording to hear experts discuss survivor-centred responses, prevention strategies and regional efforts to combat human trafficking.

About AYCPP

The African Youth Crime Prevention Platform (AYCPP) is UNAFRI's flagship X Spaces series, bringing together young people, experts and policymakers for informed conversations on crime prevention and criminal justice issues shaping Africa.