On the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, celebrated every year on June 26, Service Yezu Mwiza (SYM) in Burundi reaffirms its commitment to a humane, preventive and inclusive approach in the fight against drug use. In the year 2026 commemorated under the theme “forge solutions grounded in foresight, innovation and solidarity”. The global campaign underscores the need for evidence-based prevention and tackling cyber-trafficking networks.

According to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres,

“Illicit drug trafficking is not a victimless crime. It inflicts profound harm on people and communities around the world while fuelling violence, crime and instability. The proliferation of synthetic drugs and the growth of online trafficking networks are compounding this crisis. At the same time, fragile health systems, persistent treatment gaps and limited access to support are undermining efforts to reduce stigma and address drug use disorders. This year’s theme challenges the world to forge solutions grounded in foresight, innovation and solidarity. By harnessing technology to stop cyber-trafficking. By working with police and authorities to detect and disrupt criminal networks and the manufacture of synthetic drugs. And by boosting investment in prevention, harm-reduction and treatment. As we mark this International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, let’s recommit to the bold, innovative and evidence-based solutions this scourge demands..”

The use of psychoactive substances poses a major public health and social challenge. It can affect physical and mental health, strain family relationships, and expose individuals to numerous risks, including HIV transmission. In response to this reality, SYM prioritizes an approach based on prevention, education, active listening, psychosocial support, and access to care, while simultaneously combating stigma and discrimination.

Within this framework, the Jesuit TAO Mpumuriza Center, integrated within ServiceYezu Mwiza (SYM) centre, plays a vital role in supporting individuals facing problems related to injecting drug use. Through its interventions, the Center contributes to harm reduction, HIV transmission prevention, and improved access to healthcare services, while also providing a space for listening, guidance, and rehabilitation.

Among those whose lives have been transformed through the programme is Bizimana Gael, whose journey from addiction to recovery offers a powerful testimony of hope. After nearly two decades of living with substance dependence and isolation, Gael found a new beginning through the support of Service Yezu Mwiza’s Centre TAO. Access to treatment, compassionate care, and renewed faith helped him rebuild his life, restore family relationships, and regain confidence in his future. Today, his story stands as a reminder that recovery is possible when people are met with dignity, care, and the opportunity to heal.

Read Bizimana Gael’s full testimony here: https://ajan.africa/my-journey-back-to-life-service-yezu-mwiza/

For Service Yezu Mwiza, every person deserves respect, compassion, and a chance to regain their stability. The fight against drugs can only be effective through collective action that places the individual at the heart of all efforts.

On this special day, Service Yezu Mwiza calls for strengthened prevention efforts, the promotion of solidarity, and the building of communities where everyone can find dignity, hope, and a future.
Service Yezu Mwiza (SYM) works for health, dignity, and hope.

By, Communications Team,

Service Yezu Mwiza (SYM), Burundi.