Minister Adoa Launches Campaign Against Drug Abuse and Early Marriages on Her Birthday

Hope is in the air in Serere District as residents and leaders rally behind a newly launched campaign aimed at eradicating drug abuse and early marriages.

The initiative, spearheaded by Hon. Hellen Adoa, the Serere District Woman MP and Minister of State for Fisheries, was officially unveiled today during a well-attended event at Olio Primary School in Serere Town Council.

Under the theme “Say No to Drug abuse, Say No to Early Marriage & say No to Dometic Violence,” the campaign aims to address two pressing social challenges that have long hindered progress in the district.

Hon. Adoa, a vocal advocate for social reform, highlighted the devastating impact of these issues on the community.

“Our youth are the backbone of this nation, but they are being held back by substance abuse and harmful cultural practices. This campaign is a call to action for all of us to protect and invest in their future,” she emphasized during her address.

Serere District, one of the most populated areas in Teso sub-region, has faced a surge in drug-related crimes and early marriages.

Tragically, violent incidents occur almost every week.

Just this morning, a driver reportedly had a quarrel with a loader over a payment of 5,000 shillings for his labor. The altercation escalated, and the driver allegedly crushed the loader with a tipper lorry.

Reports from East Kyoga Police suggest that drug abuse, particularly among the youth, has fueled rising violence, including gang activities and domestic conflicts.

Hon. Adoa expressed her concern over these growing issues saying, “Every week, we hear cases of violence. Just recently, a young man was killed over a family dispute. Gangs are destroying crops, terrorizing residents, and escalating insecurity. These are signs of a community in distress, and we must act now.”

She also highlighted the district’s lack of essential infrastructure, including hospitals, which further exacerbates the situation.

“With a population of over 500,000, Serere urgently needs more support from the government to address healthcare and security challenges,” she added.

Early marriages remain a significant issue in Serere, depriving young girls of education and perpetuating cycles of poverty.

Hon. Adoa noted that economic hardships often push families to marry off their daughters at a young age.

“Poverty drives parents to view early marriage as a solution. Girls end up in harmful relationships, often with devastating consequences,” she said.

The minister urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to join hands in ending these practices and empowering girls through education and skills development.

Hon. Adoa announced several initiatives to tackle these issues, including: Sensitization meetings and school outreach programs to educate the youth and community about the dangers of drug abuse and early marriages.

She also said there is need to intensify Radio campaigns and counseling facilities at health centers and police stations to support individuals battling addiction and survivors of early marriages.

The Minister however offered Financial support for youth projects, such as goat roasting, bricklaying, and tent and chair rentals.

“I have allocated over 50 million shillings for this campaign, with 40 million going directly into youth projects. We must address idleness and poverty, which are key drivers of these problems,” Hon. Adoa stated.

Local leaders, youth groups, and women’s organizations have pledged their support.

Amos Otai, Assistant RDC Serere, emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of these issues.

“Over 70% of crimes reported here are linked to drug abuse. From theft to domestic violence, drugs are at the core. This campaign is a timely intervention.”

Religious leaders have also joined the cause.

A senior pastor from Serere Pentecostal Assembly of God Church said, “This is a moral issue. As spiritual leaders, we must guide our people to make better choices.”

Residents expressed their gratitude and optimism.

Joseph Oluka, a local artist, said, “This campaign has come at the right time. If we can save our youth, we can save Serere.”

Sarah Akiror, a mother of five, shared her hope saying “We’ve lost so many young people to drugs, and our daughters are getting married too early. This campaign will give our children a better future.”

Hon. Adoa concluded by urging all stakeholders to work together.

“This is a fight we cannot afford to lose. Parents, teachers, religious leaders, and law enforcers must unite to overcome these challenges and build a brighter future for Serere.”

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John Ogulei

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