Drug Abuse and Socio-Economic Wellbeing of Youth in Moyo District, Uganda

This study explores the relationship between drug abuse and the socio-economic well-being of youths in Moyo District, with a specific focus on recreational, prescription, and performance-enhancing drug abuse. Using a descriptive study design, the research employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches to examine these relationships. A sample of 330 youths was randomly selected from various trading centers within Moyo Subcounty, based on a study population of 2,342 youths as reported by UBOS (2020). Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, and validity and reliability were ensured through expert judgment and pre-testing, with a Content Validity Index (CVI) of 0.85 and a Cronbach alpha coefficient of 0.88, respectively. The analysis revealed moderate negative correlations between recreational drug abuse (Pearson r = -0.421) and prescription drug abuse (Pearson r = -0.382) with socioeconomic well-being, indicating that higher levels of drug abuse are associated with lower socio-economic conditions. A weaker but still significant negative correlation was observed between performance-enhancing drug abuse (Pearson r = -0.229) and socio-economic well-being. These findings suggest that drug abuse negatively impacts socioeconomic well-being through factors such as reduced educational attainment, job performance, and financial instability. Based on these findings, the study recommends the implementation of educational programs, life skills training, expanded access to counseling and mental health services, development of targeted rehabilitation programs, improved healthcare access, and integration of drug abuse education into broader health programs. These measures aim to mitigate the negative effects of drug abuse and enhance the overall socio-economic well-being of youths in Moyo District.