AUC GLOBAL COALITION CONTINENTAL TECHNICAL CONSULTATION TO STRENGTHEN SYNTHETIC DRUG SUPPLY REDUCTION EFFORTS TOWARDS ADDRESSING DRUG TRAFFICKING AND ADVANCING CRIME PREVENTION, CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND RULE OF LAW IN AFRICA,

22-25 OCTOBER 2024, ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR                                                       

STATEMENT

BY

H.E AMB. MINATA SAMATE CESSOUMA

COMMISSIONER FOR HEALTH, HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, AUC

Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a profound privilege to address this gathering at the second AUC Global Coalition Continental Consultation on Synthetic Drug Supply Reduction. Your attendance underscores a shared commitment to confronting the significant and escalating threat posed by synthetic drugs across our continent.

The African Union Commission (AUC) has long been at the forefront of efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking, recognizing its dire implications for the security, public health, and socio-economic stability of Africa. The Commission's initiatives has been comprehensive, designed to address the complex nature of drug-related challenges in a rapidly evolving global context.

A key pillar of our strategy has been the African Union Plan of Action on Drug Control and Crime Prevention. This framework has served as the foundation for our collective efforts, emphasizing an integrated approach that balances supply reduction with demand reduction while fostering international cooperation. The Plan of Action has guided member states in the development of robust legal and regulatory frameworks, enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies, and promoting the harmonization of policies across the continent.

In the domain of supply reduction, the AUC has facilitated a series of targeted interventions aimed at strengthening the operational capacities of member states. These efforts have included specialized training for law enforcement and regulatory bodies, the development of cross-border intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and the establishment of regional task forces dedicated to combating drug trafficking networks. The Commission has also played a pivotal role in advocating for the adoption of stringent legal measures to address the proliferation of synthetic drugs, recognizing the unique challenges these substances present due to their ease of production and distribution.

Our engagement extends beyond the continental sphere. The Commission has been a key stakeholder in global drug control initiatives, working closely with the US Department of States’ Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and other international stakeholders. This collaboration has enabled us to align our strategies with global best practices and to ensure that Africa's voice is represented in international fora addressing drug-related issues.

Nevertheless, we are acutely aware that the emergence of synthetic drugs demands an adaptive and innovative response. These substances, often produced in concealed  laboratories with minimal resources, pose a significant challenge and threat to traditional drug control mechanisms. Their potency, coupled with the swiftness with which they can spread across borders, necessitates a comprehensive and coordinated response.

Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, the significance of today's consultation cannot be overstated. The Global Coalition on Synthetic Drug Supply Reduction represents an essential platform for enhancing our collaborative efforts in addressing this urgent threat. By integrating advanced technological solutions, strengthening cross-border cooperation, and sharing intelligence across jurisdictions, we can disrupt the supply chains that fuel the synthetic drug trade and mitigate its impact on our societies.

However, it is imperative that our approach extends beyond supply reduction. We must address the root causes that drive the demand for synthetic drugs. This requires a concerted investment in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation initiatives, ensuring that our policies are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all demographic groups, particularly the youth, who are extremely affected.

The African Union Commission remains resolute in its commitment to supporting member states in their resolve to eradicate thes menace.. We will continue to provide strategic leadership and coordination, fostering an environment conducive to the exchange of knowledge, resources, and best practices across the continent. Our collective objective is to secure a future where the scourge of synthetic drugs no longer poses a threat to the health, security, and prosperity of our people.

I wish to end here by noting that,  while the challenges before us are considerable, they are not insurmountable. Let us strive to develop and implement innovative solutions to combat the synthetic drug crisis by harnessing our collective expertise, commitment and resources,. I am certain this consultation, serving  as a spark for decisive action, will reinforce our determination  to protect our communities and ensure a safer, healthier future for all Africans.

Thank you.