Communities Rise Against Drug Abuse as Residents Demand Stronger Action in South West Region

Kumba — A growing wave of community resistance against drug abuse is spreading across Cameroon's South West Region as women, youth leaders, traditional authorities, and civil society organizations intensify efforts to combat the sale and consumption of illicit drugs, which many say are destroying the region's younger generation.

In recent months, communities in Buea, Ekona, Tiko, Muea, Tinto, and Kumba have witnessed demonstrations led mainly by women demanding decisive action against drug dealers. Protesters argue that widespread drug abuse has contributed to rising crime, school dropout rates, violence, and family breakdowns.

In Kumba, the population has repeatedly raised concerns about the sale and consumption of drugs in several neighbourhoods. Areas such as Club No. 1, Lido Street, and Mile 1 are frequently mentioned as locations where young people gather and where illicit substances are reportedly consumed.

The problem has persisted despite repeated complaints to the authorities. In 2024, women in the Fiango/Hausa Quarters staged protests, destroyed makeshift drug dens, and appealed to security forces to dismantle drug networks operating in their communities. They even presented thier worries to Bar. Tambe Tiku Christopher, head of the national human rights commisiion in Buea

Similar demonstrations have since spread to other communities. In Ekona, hundreds of women marched through the streets calling on government authorities and traditional leaders to crack down on traffickers, warning that drugs such as marijuana, tramadol and other illicit substances were destroying the future of young people.

Civil society organisations have also joined the campaign. During activities marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse in Buea, campaigners warned that substance abuse has reached alarming levels in the North West and South West regions, with many linking the situation to years of socio-political instability, economic hardship and youth unemployment. Many people interviewd during various community campaigns have expressed frustration that drug trafficking continues despite repeated arrests and public complaints. They are calling for stronger law enforcement, sustained investigations into trafficking networks, and increased prevention programmes targeting young people. Experts advise that tackling drug abuse requires more than police operations. They argue that effective action will depend on stronger cooperation between families, schools, religious institutions, traditional authorities, civil society groups and law enforcement agencies to reduce both the supply of and demand for illicit drugs.

As communities continue to mobilise, many people hope that sustained public pressure will encourage authorities to intensify efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks while expanding rehabilitation and awareness programmes to help affected youths rebuild their lives.