Dire Dawa University Shines Spotlight on Addiction Crisis

Dire Dawa University Shines Spotlight on Addiction Crisis

• ወቅታዊ መረጃ
• May 29, 2025

The Department of Psychiatry at Dire Dawa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences organized a seminar focused on addiction control and prevention. The event aimed to raise awareness of the growing public health burden posed by psychoactive substance use in Dire Dawa and its surrounding areas.

A keynote lecture was delivered by Professor Mustafa al'Absi from University of Minnesota, USA. His presentation focused on the neurobiological underpinnings of addiction, contemporary treatment strategies, and the importance of integrated, evidence-based approaches in managing substance use disorders.

In addition, a detailed review of the burden of psychoactive substance addiction in Dire Dawa and neighboring regions was presented by Yibeltal Getachew,  offering critical insights into local trends and challenges. 

Dr. Hussen Mohammed, Chief Executive Director of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, addressed the gathering and emphasized the severe social, economic, and health consequences of substance addiction in the region. He stressed the urgent need for coordinated efforts and policy interventions to tackle the growing threat.

The seminar concluded with a strategic discussion involving the university’s top management, focusing on the importance of undertaking sustained intervention on the crisis with the aim of  providing prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services, while also supporting research and community outreach to mitigate the widespread impact of substance use disorders in the region.