From 30 April to 3 May 2025, the Ivorian cities of Daloa, Vavoua and Séguéla played host to “Daloa 2025”, a major public awareness initiative led by the Direction de la Police des Stupéfiants et des Drogues (DPSD).

Centred around the urgent issue of drug abuse and counterfeit pharmaceuticals, the campaign aimed to educate, mobilise and inspire action across the Haut-Sassandra region’s communities. The event brought together law enforcement, local leaders, health professionals and thousands of residents for a coordinated effort in the fight against the growing presence of narcotics and illicit medications in Côte d’Ivoire.

A rich programme of events unfolded during the three-day campaign. Awareness caravans moved through neighbourhoods, engaging directly with residents. Debates and conferences under the theme “Jeunes de Côte d’Ivoire, dites non à la drogue et aux faux médicaments, mais oui à la vie !” (Young people of Côte d’Ivoire, say no to drugs and counterfeit medicines, and yes to life) drew attention, including a flagship panel discussion that attracted nearly 1,000 participants. Radio broadcasts carried the message to more remote populations, while the unveiling of a new billboard declaring “Daloa dit NON à la drogue” (Daloa says NO to drugs) offered a powerful visual reminder of the city’s commitment. The campaign culminated in a community sports day promoting healthy lifestyles among young people—a poignant close to a week of education and civic engagement.

Major seizures incinerated in symbolic ceremony

One of the most striking moments of the “Daloa 2025” initiative came during the destruction of seized narcotics and counterfeit medications. In a formal ceremony attended by local justice officials, the DPSD incinerated a staggering quantity of illegal substances confiscated in the Haut-Sassandra region over a 15-month period. These included 107 kilograms of cannabis, nearly 31 tonnes of counterfeit pharmaceutical products (MQIF), 152 doses of heroin, 56 doses of cocaine, and thousands of opioid tablets including tramadol and the increasingly prevalent “Tramaking” (tapentadol).

The destruction of these substances—carried out under strict supervision—was not only symbolic but also a clear signal of the state’s determination to curb both supply and demand. The campaign aligns with the vision of Interior Minister Vagondo Diomandé, who has made the fight against drug trafficking and consumption a national priority. His approach underlines a belief that drug prevention must be community-led, youth-oriented, and institutionally reinforced.

From transit point to prevention

Côte d’Ivoire remains a key focus in regional and international efforts to address drug-related challenges. A recent Numbeo public survey from May 2025 found that nearly 59% of respondents view drug use and dealing as a moderate to high concern. Côte d’Ivoire is both a point of transit for international drug trafficking—particularly cocaine routed from Latin America to Europe—and a market for substances such as tramadol and tapentadol, which are increasingly present in local street markets. High-profile seizures, including a 2-tonne cocaine interception in 2022, highlight the country’s strategic position and the scale of enforcement efforts underway.

The government response remains stringent. Possession of narcotics can result in a minimum of 12 months’ imprisonment and substantial fines, while intent to distribute is punishable by at least five years’ incarceration. Several specialised agencies work in close coordination to enforce the law, including the DPSD, the national gendarmerie, airport units, and an inter-ministerial anti-drug committee. Operations such as “Daloa 2025” demonstrate not only the scale of the challenge but also the government’s resolve to act.

As Côte d’Ivoire continues to confront the challenges posed by drug trafficking and consumption, initiatives like “Daloa 2025” demonstrate how targeted, community-driven action can support national priorities in the fight against drugs and highlight the importance of local leadership, public engagement and sustained institutional commitment.

Image credit: Ministère de l’Intérieur et de la Sécurité de Côte d’Ivoire