Voices of Change: Stakeholders’ Roles in the Fight Against Substance Abuse in Mogadishu, Somalia

Abstract

Aim: This study explores the roles, challenges, and collaborative efforts of key stakeholders engaged in addressing substance abuse.Methods: Using a qualitative narrative approach, the study examined stakeholder roles in tackling substance abuse in Mogadishu, Somalia. Purposive sampling was utilised to select all available community stakeholders actively addressing substance abuse. Semi structured interviews were conducted to collect data, allowing participants the freedom to share their experiences openly. Thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns, commonalities, and diversities in the stakeholders' roles. The study focused on a population of five key stakeholders, including the Somali police force, a National Medicines Regulatory Authority officer, two social workers, and a representative from the Ministry of Endowments & Religious Affairs.Results: The research reveals a significant prevalence of psychoactive substances in Mogadishu, with emerging trends like the misuse of pregabalin driven by accessibility and affordability. Emphasising collaborative efforts, the study highlights the importance of effective communication and coordination among stakeholders to provide comprehensive support for individuals with substance abuse issues. Despite these challenges, such as limited resources, evolving drug trends, and addiction complexity, ongoing efforts and adaptation are crucial. Additionally, the research elucidates the established link between substance abuse and criminal behaviour, emphasising the potential consequences of drug addiction on financial desperation, violent acts, drug trafficking, and other criminal behaviours.Conclusion: The study reveals widespread substance abuse, necessitating adaptable authorities. Collaborative stakeholder efforts are vital for supporting individuals affected. Challenges demand sustained efforts. The study links substance abuse to crime. Effective resolution requires stakeholder unity, prevention programs, expanded treatment access, and adaptation to the evolving drug landscape while supporting those affected.Plain Language Summary: Main Findings1. Role of Those Involved The study shows how important the police, National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA), religious leaders, and social workers are in dealing with substance abuse. Each group brings special skills and resources to help with this complex problem.2. Substances Being Used The research points out that there are a lot of psychoactive substances being used in Mogadishu. This includes new trends like the misuse of pregabalin. These substances are becoming more common because they are easy to get and affordable.3. Working Together These groups need to work together to deal with substance abuse. Good communication and coordination between them can make sure people struggling with substance abuse get the help and guidance they need.4. Challenges The study talks about problems like not having enough resources, the changing ways people use drugs, and how addiction is complicated. Dealing with these challenges means putting in ongoing effort and being able to change as needed.5. Link to Doing Bad Things The research also shows that using drugs is connected to doing criminal activities. Being addicted to drugs can lead to things like not having enough money, being violent, selling drugs, and other criminal behaviours.