Princess Ulrike Pohlman Achom Calls for Greater Investment in Drug Prevention as Uganda Battles Rising Addiction

By Peterson Hiirya

The Chairperson of the Advisory Council for AIDO Network International, Her Royal Highness (HRH) Princess Ulrike Pohlman Achom, has urged government, schools and communities to prioritise drug prevention programmes, arguing that preventing addiction is far more effective and affordable than treating it after it has taken hold.

Speaking during an interview with Skika Daily News at the Toto Royal Palace in Serere following the conclusion of the Drug-Free World Campaign in the Teso Sub-region, Princess Achom acknowledged that while Uganda has rehabilitation centres to support people already affected by substance abuse, preventing young people from using drugs remains the organisation’s primary mission.

“There are rehabilitation programmes in Uganda, and some are very successful,” she said. “Rehabilitation helps people overcome physical dependence on drugs, but it can be an extremely difficult process. Recovery requires professional care, family support and, most importantly, the individual’s own decision to stop using drugs.”

Princess Achom explained that successful rehabilitation often begins when a person makes a genuine commitment to change. She noted that supportive families and trusted friends play a critical role in helping recovering addicts avoid relapse by removing drugs and alcohol from their surroundings and providing continuous encouragement throughout the recovery journey.

For young people who have only begun experimenting with substances such as alcohol or marijuana, she said early intervention can prevent addiction from developing.

“As ambassadors, we guide them towards available support programmes, educational courses and life-skills training. Many young people turn to drugs because they are struggling with personal challenges. Helping them build the skills to overcome life’s difficulties can prevent addiction and support long-term recovery,” she said.

Responding to concerns from parents across Eastern Uganda whose children become addicted while at school, Princess Achom stressed that the Drug-Free World Campaign is designed specifically as a prevention programme targeting children and young people between the ages of eight and twenty-two.

“Our goal is to ensure that young people never begin using drugs in the first place,” she said. “Treating someone who is already addicted is a completely different responsibility. Rehabilitation requires personalised attention, continuous care and, in many cases, months or even years of treatment.”

She observed that some synthetic drugs can leave lasting effects that require prolonged rehabilitation, making treatment both complex and expensive for families.

Princess Achom noted that many parents already face significant financial pressure from paying school fees, accommodation and transport costs. When rehabilitation expenses are added, the burden becomes even heavier.

“That is why prevention is so important,” she said. “Students, parents and teachers all need to understand the dangers of drug abuse before young people become addicted. Preventing drug abuse is not only better for families, but it is also far more affordable than treating addiction after it has already taken hold.”

She called for comprehensive drug prevention programmes to be introduced in schools across Uganda, describing such initiatives as a long-term investment in the country’s social and economic wellbeing.

“From both a social and economic perspective, investing in prevention is one of the best decisions Uganda can make,” Princess Achom said.

The Drug-Free World Campaign, implemented by AIDO Network International in partnership with local schools and community leaders, seeks to educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse through awareness campaigns, educational materials, school clubs, sports activities and community outreach.

Organisers believe that strengthening prevention efforts at the grassroots level will help reduce substance abuse and protect future generations from addiction.