BAPS representatives participated in the East Africa Youth Forum on Drugs 2026, which brought together 205 delegates from eight countries – Tanzania, Zanzibar, Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, South Africa, Turkey, and Seychelles – to discuss the growing challenges of substance abuse and explore collaborative solutions for prevention and youth empowerment.
Organized by the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) Tanzania, Care for All, Slumchild Foundation, and Apar Foundation, the three-day forum provided a platform for youth leaders, government representatives, civil society organizations, health professionals, faith-based organizations, and community stakeholders to exchange ideas and strengthen partnerships aimed at creating drug-free communities.
Throughout the forum, participants engaged in discussions on drug prevention, mental health, youth leadership, rehabilitation, and community-based approaches to addressing substance use challenges. The sessions highlighted the importance of empowering young people with knowledge, positive values, and supportive environments that enable them to make healthy life choices.
BAPS contributed to the discussions by sharing its commitment to character development, value-based education, and youth empowerment. Through its various spiritual, educational, and community service initiatives, BAPS continues to inspire young people to lead disciplined, purposeful, and addiction-free lives. The forum provided an opportunity to showcase the important role that faith-based organizations can play in strengthening resilience and promoting positive social change among youth.
The forum concluded with a closing ceremony officiated by the Commissioner General of the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA), Mr Aretas Lyimo who commended the participants for their dedication and encouraged young people to remain drug-free and become ambassadors of prevention within their communities. He emphasized the collective responsibility of families, educators, faith-based organizations, governments, and communities in safeguarding future generations from the dangers of substance abuse.