Windhoek: Amid rising drug-related cases, the United Democratic Front Youth League (UDFYL) is advocating for stringent border security to reduce drug flow and combat substance abuse, particularly among young people. UDFYL secretary general Reinold Goseb in a statement shared with Nampa, stated that Namibian youths are facing significant challenges and urged for a national campaign to address drug abuse and strengthen the security of Namibia's borders.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Goseb remarked that the growing crisis of drug abuse in Namibia has reached alarming levels, particularly among the youth. Across towns and communities, there is a noticeable rise in substance abuse, which is affecting families, disrupting education, increasing crime, and hindering the nation's future leadership potential.
Goseb emphasized that this escalating issue is not just a social problem but a direct threat to Namibia's future. He noted that young learners are dropping out of school, academic performance is declining, youth unemployment is exacerbated by addiction, and criminal activities linked to drug abuse are on the rise in communities. Without decisive action, there is a risk of raising a lost generation.
The urgency for national action includes enhancing border control, improving intelligence operations against drug trafficking, imposing stricter penalties for those profiting from drugs, and expanding rehabilitation and treatment programs. Goseb stressed the importance of national school prevention programs and community reporting to identify and dismantle local drug hubs.
He further highlighted the need to prioritize national youth safety over politics, interests, and complacency. Goseb stated, 'We cannot allow drugs to define the destiny of our young people. The future of Namibia depends on the choices we make today,' adding that the UDFYL stands ready to collaborate with government institutions, law enforcement agencies, schools, churches, parents, and civil society to tackle this crisis.
Goseb's statement comes amid monthly reports of drug cases nationwide, especially at border points. During the festive season, the Namibian Police Force announced the arrest of 222 suspects related to drug offences. The confiscated drugs included over 1 million kilogrammes of cannabis, 19,131 Mandrax tablets, 28 grams of cocaine powder, 177.5 units of crack cocaine, 38 grams of crystal meth, and 36 abortion tablets.
From 30 January to 02 February 2026, a month-end police operation code-named 'Walya Shakakodhi Tala Pombada' was conducted across all 14 regions, resulting in the seizure of drugs valued at over N.dollars 90,000.