Buyaga West MP Barnabas Tinkasimire has issued a stern warning to young people about the dangers of drug abuse, citing its devastating effects on their lives and futures.
He pointed to rising cases of addiction leading to poor decisions, financial ruin, and increased vulnerability to HIV/AIDS.
Speaking at the close of a youth conference at Katikengeyo Archdeaconry Anglican in Nyakarongo Sub-county, Kagadi District, the MP emphasized the urgent need for young people to steer clear of harmful substances.
The event, attended by nearly 1,800 youths, provided a platform for dialogue on the challenges facing Uganda's youth.
“I see many youth today spending most of their time on alcohol and cigarettes. What do they gain? I’m yet to see a successful youth on drugs,” Tinkasimire remarked.
“The best advice I can give is to avoid drugs because they will only drain you of the little you have.”
The MP also encouraged young people to focus on setting goals and pursuing education to secure their future. “As a young person, you need to set targets for a better future. Ambitious goals will keep you on track and give you purpose,” he advised.
Tinkasimire called for bylaws to deter drug use among youth and urged local councils to implement strict regulations.
He also emphasized the importance of financial support for productive youth initiatives such as small businesses, including chapati stalls.
“Lower councils need bylaws to discourage young people from smoking, drinking, and taking intoxicating drugs. Fear of reprimand can help curb this behavior. At the same time, we need to allocate funds to support those who are making an effort to build a better future for themselves,” he added.
Reverend Captain Wilson Atuhiirwe, the Archdeacon of Katikengeyo, also condemned youth involvement in vices such as drug abuse, alcoholism, and fornication, warning that these behaviors jeopardize both their spiritual and personal growth.
“As a church, we condemn such acts among the youth. They do not represent the kingdom of God. How will you inherit heaven while engaging in these evils?” he challenged.
Youth leaders at the conference acknowledged the prevalence of these issues and attributed them to factors such as poor parenting and unregulated exposure to social media.
“Many of our peers are spoilt, but we must also examine parenting. Some parents are absent, and social media exposes young people to harmful content,” said Joseph Kwizera, a youth from Rugashari.
Both church leaders and politicians called for a united effort to instill values and create supportive environments for young people to thrive.