Dynamics of substance abuse and treatment in West Africa

Substance use disorder is evolving rapidly in West Africa, especially among the youthful population. Socio-economic stressors, idleness, and peer pressure are key drivers of substance abuse and addiction. The dire impact of substance abuse in West Africa requires concerted efforts to rehabilitate persons with substance use disorders while addressing the challenge of drug production and trafficking. This research, therefore, provides an evidence-based analysis of the emerging patterns and trends in regional substance use, as well as the treatment capacities across focal countries between 2020 and 2022. The research draws from the key findings from a three-year epidemiological study by the West African Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (WENDU) which is coordinated by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The data were collected by national focal points and analysed in coordination with the ECOWAS Commission. The research shows that cannabis is the leading cause of treatment for substance use disorder and it dominates the list of illicit substance seizures. This is followed by resin, hashish, and new substances such as Kush. The research also highlights the proliferation of pharmaceutical opioids and other new psychoactive substances in the region. However, inadequate efforts to prevent substance use disorder and the shortage of treatment services pose multidimensional challenges to public healthcare, educational, economic, and criminal justice systems.