AIDO Unveils Roadmap for 2026 Drug-Free World Campaign Targeting Over 200 Schools Across Teso
By Peterson Hiirya.
AIDO Network International has officially rolled out the roadmap for the second phase of its Drug-Free World Campaign, an ambitious regional initiative aimed at reaching 200 Secondary Schools and more than three million people across the Teso sub-region and beyond.
The campaign, scheduled to run from July 17 to July 31, 2026, represents a significant expansion of last year’s successful pilot program in Serere District, which reached an estimated one million people through school-based awareness activities and community engagements.
Speaking during preparations for the campaign, Christopher Ojame, AIDO Network Uganda Commissioner in Charge of Education, outlined a comprehensive program of activities designed to mobilize schools, communities, leaders, and development partners in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
According to Ojame, activities will officially commence on July 17 with a partners’ workshop, the commissioning of an AIDO-supported block, eye screening services at Serere Health Centre IV, and community outreach visits.
The campaign will then move through schools and communities in Serere, Asuret (Soroti District), Kalaki, Kaberamaido, Kumi, Ngora, Amuria, Katakwi, Bukedea, and other districts across Eastern Uganda.
Key activities will include school awareness sessions, community dialogues, health outreach programs, sports engagements, and leadership meetings.
The campaign will culminate on July 31 with a grand showcase bringing together representatives from 30 schools that have established Drug-Free World Clubs. The event will celebrate outstanding initiatives, share success stories, and encourage more schools and communities to embrace the drug-free movement.
Ojame emphasizes that building a drug-free society requires collective responsibility and community participation.
“When drugs destroy a young person, the effects extend beyond the individual.
Families suffer, communities lose productive citizens, businesses lose workers, and the entire economy feels the impact. This campaign is about protecting our future,” Ojame noted.
Meanwhile, Michael Onyege, AIDO Commissioner for Projects and Partnerships, revealed that the organization is intensifying efforts to address what he described as one of the greatest threats facing young people today.
“This is no longer just a school issue; it is a community issue. We must reach families, parents, community leaders, and young people wherever they are. Through awareness, education, and action, we can prevent drug abuse before it destroys lives,” Onyege said.
The campaign is being spearheaded by AIDO Network International through its partnership with the Foundation for a Drug-Free World and is supported by MTN Uganda, TBS Radio, Rotary Clubs, financial institutions, educational institutions, cultural leaders, Clinison Medical Centre, and various community stakeholders.
Leading the mobilization efforts is His Royal Highness Dr. Paul Jones Eganda I, Founder and President of AIDO Network International, alongside members of the palace council and education leaders, including Christopher Ojame and Michael Onyege.
Partners have joined the campaign with MTN , TBS , and Banks Rotary, among others reinforcing the collaborative approach that organizers believe will make the 2026 campaign one of the largest youth-focused awareness initiatives ever conducted in Eastern Uganda.
With strengthened partnerships and a commitment to reaching both schools and families, AIDO Network International is positioning the 2026 Drug-Free World Campaign as a transformative movement aimed at safeguarding the future of young people and building healthier, safer, and more productive communities across Uganda.
