Entebbe, Uganda — In a move that signals a renewed focus on tackling drug abuse among Uganda’s youth, Gloria Kamira, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Exutory Services Limited, has returned to her homeland to spearhead an intensive awareness campaign.
Kamira, who has been based in Minnesota, USA, for several years, has dedicated her professional life to fighting drug abuse and rehabilitating affected youths in diaspora communities. Now, she is turning her attention back to Uganda, where rising drug use among young people and celebrities has become a growing concern.
Kamira landed at Entebbe International Airport earlier this morning, where she was welcomed by Hon. Asaph Nahurira, the Lord Councilor-elect for Kampala Central Division. Their symbolic meeting at the airport underscores the collaboration between civil society and local government in addressing what experts describe as a national crisis.
Speaking to reporters at the airport, Hon. Nahurira applauded Kamira’s commitment to the cause. “Gloria Kamira is not only a daughter of Uganda but also a champion for our youth. Her experience from the U.S. will be invaluable in crafting solutions that work for our unique challenges here in Uganda,” he said.
A Mission Rooted in Personal Experience and Global Expertise
Exutory Services Limited, Kamira’s organization, has been operating in Minnesota with a mission to offer prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation services to youth caught in the web of drug addiction. Over the years, Kamira has worked with community leaders, schools, and healthcare professionals to address substance abuse, particularly among immigrant communities where cultural and systemic barriers often delay intervention.
Now back in Uganda for a short but packed visit, Kamira plans to engage with various media houses for live interviews and panel discussions. She will focus on creating awareness about drug abuse, especially in the entertainment sector, where the glamorization of substance use has become a dangerous trend among celebrities and their fans.
Targeting Celebrity Culture and Youth Audiences
Kamira’s campaign will shine a spotlight on how celebrity culture in Uganda influences youth behavior, particularly concerning drug use. “Celebrities are role models, whether they accept it or not. When they glorify drug use, it trickles down to young people who look up to them,” Kamira said in an exclusive interview. “Our aim is not to shame but to engage these influencers in becoming part of the solution.”
Her planned media appearances include top television talk shows, radio stations with large youth audiences, and digital platforms where she hopes to connect with Uganda’s tech-savvy generation. Kamira also intends to meet with artists, event organizers, and talent managers to explore partnerships aimed at promoting drug-free lifestyles in the entertainment industry.
The Rising Threat of Drug Abuse in Uganda
Uganda has seen a worrying rise in drug and substance abuse, particularly among urban youth. Substances such as marijuana, shisha, cocaine, and synthetic drugs have found their way into schools, universities, and entertainment circles. Recent reports from the Uganda Police and the Ministry of Health have pointed to the urgent need for coordinated national action.
Kamira’s arrival comes at a critical time when local leaders and activists are calling for comprehensive drug policies, better rehabilitation facilities, and more grassroots campaigns.
A Call to Collective Action
During her press briefing, Kamira emphasized that the fight against drug abuse requires a collective effort. “Government, media, families, schools, religious institutions — everyone has a role to play. Drug abuse is not a problem we can solve in silos,” she stressed.
Hon. Nahurira echoed this sentiment, pledging to work with Kamira and other stakeholders to advocate for stronger policies and community programs in Kampala and beyond.
Looking Ahead
Kamira’s return has already begun to spark national conversations on social media and in mainstream media circles. Her campaign is expected to culminate in a national conference on drug abuse prevention, bringing together policymakers, health professionals, celebrities, and youth representatives.
As Uganda grapples with the complex challenge of drug abuse, Gloria Kamira’s homecoming and campaign could mark the beginning of a sustained, impactful movement aimed at saving the nation’s future generations from the grip of addiction.