The unmitigated use of Khat carries profound consequences across every sector of society:

• Psychological & Physical Health: Increasing rates of dependency, mental health disorders, and long-term organ damage.
• Social & Economic Impact: Eroded family structures, decreased labor productivity, and the diversion of household income from essential needs like education and nutrition.
• National Stability: Potential political and security implications stemming from a demographic struggling with widespread addiction.

Let’s Control Khat, Before It Controls Us!

To protect our youth and our future, Ethiopia must transition from silence to active regulation. By enacting a comprehensive regulatory law, we can effectively manage domestic demand, restrict access to minors, and provide the necessary frameworks for recovery and prevention.

MCDO is committed to leading this advocacy. We believe that through legislative action and public health awareness, we can safeguard the wellbeing of all Ethiopians.

“Let’s control Khat, before it controls us!”

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By Elias Kalayu Drug Demand Reduction Advocate | Executive Director, MCDO