HOW THE WORLD IS ADDRESSING AFRICA’S OPIOID CRISIS

Taking a brief break from the epidemic in the U.S. and the growing problem in Australia, we also have to consider how opioid painkillers aren’t just affecting nations but are also impacting entire continents. In the case of Africa, these dangerous drugs are drifting through major cities and small towns across the vast region, and the problem has become so severe that the United Nations may be close to intervening. Let’s take a closer look at how the world is addressing Africa’s Opioid Crisis.

Drug Trafficking at Its Worst

In a recent meeting with the United Nations Security Council, Yury Fedotov, head of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, announced how his team is uncovering dangerous new activities centered on drug trafficking in Africa. Particularly along the Western and Central regions of the continent, governments and economies are falling into tailspins due to the presence of opioids. In fact, Fedetov’s office confirmed that Africa accounts for 87% of globally-confiscated opioids. 

A Codeine and Tramadol Mix

Over the past years, African governments have been working hard to combat opioid problems, particularly with painkillers like codeine and tramadol. According to one investigation conducted by members of the BBC, reporters uncovered corrupted business layouts at Nigerian pharmaceutical companies. As a result, the Nigerian government completely restricted imports of cough syrups containing codeine and banned all production of this drug.

Efforts from Ghana

On the other side of the playing field, Ghana has also been fighting to stop the seemingly endless supply of opioid painkillers from entering the country. However, to make sure this action is effective, officials have to consider laying restrictions of access routes along Benin, which was labeled a tramadol capital for India in 2016.

Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid use disorder is easily one of the most terrifying substance use disorders on the planet, mostly because opioid addiction partially stems from a large number of drugs that are legally regulated by the federal government. For decades, our country has suffered beneath the weight of dangerous synthetics and legal painkillers, and millions of Americans have suffered from addiction throughout the 20 years the crisis has been brewing. However, you can make the right decision by taking a stand against your addiction and regaining your health and happiness.

If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of opioid withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.

If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.