KMTC Student Represents Kenyan Youth at the African Union forum in Lusaka, Zambia

In a groundbreaking African Youth Forum on Drug Use Prevention organized by the African Union Commission Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development (HHS), Winnie Kemunto, a Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) student stood out as a passionate advocate for change.

The first-ever continental youth forum on drug use prevention which sought to combat drug abuse and trafficking among young people of the continent.

Ms. Kemunto was delighted to represent Kenyan youth at the forum after she secured her spot through a competitive application on the African Union website.

She emphasized the significance of leveraging digital platforms to seize such opportunities, recognizing the competitive nature of the forum that attracted numerous applications.

She told the conference, “Change begins with our active involvement. As today’s youth, we are not just leaders of tomorrow, we are leaders today. Utilizing digital platforms is key to seizing opportunities that pave the way for impactful change.”

Ms. Kemunto’s call to action resonated with the forum’s commitment to implementing drug use prevention initiatives across Africa.

The forum brought together dynamic young minds from over 10 African countries in a collaborative effort to address the escalating challenges associated with drug use among youth, women, and children across the continent.

The event, which ran from November 6th to 10th, 2023, was a side meeting to the African Union High-Level Session on Substance Use and Related Mental Health Disorders.

The closing ceremony featured a powerful youth declaration, and participants committed to implementing drug use prevention initiatives in their respective countries.

The forum concluded with action points urging participants to establish national youth fora, finalize project proposals for funding, and remain actively engaged in drug use prevention efforts.

Ends…