Over 1,000 People Enrolled in National Drug Treatment Programmes

More than 1,000 individuals are currently enrolled in the national drug treatment system, with the National Drug Agency working to expand rehabilitation services to accommodate more people seeking treatment.

The agency’s Chairman, Ahmed Siddeeq, said 1,082 individuals are currently undergoing rehabilitation under its supervision. Speaking on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu programme, he said the agency operates seven rehabilitation programmes, including centre-based, semi-residential and community-based treatment services.

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According to Siddeeq, 533 individuals are currently receiving treatment, including eight minors. Of those undergoing rehabilitation, 24 are enrolled in semi-residential care, 113 are receiving treatment at rehabilitation centres and 370 are participating in methadone therapy programmes.

He said demand for treatment continues to exceed available capacity, with 710 people currently on the waiting list due to shortages in infrastructure and human resources.

Siddeeq said the agency plans to expand access to rehabilitation services by establishing regional facilities, strengthening vocational training programmes and creating employment opportunities for individuals recovering from drug addiction. He added that community support would be essential to achieving long-term success in addressing drug abuse.

The government has identified efforts to combat drug abuse as one of its key internal security priorities. According to the Ministry of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology, more than 320 kilogrammes of illegal drugs have been seized through border interdiction operations over the past two years, while more than 140 drug-related cases have been filed during the past four years.