In response to the recent signing of the Narcotics and Psychotropic Substance (Control) Bill 2023 into law by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda Tooro Chapter has issued a call for citizens to explore alternative sources of income to avoid involvement in illicit drug trade.
The move comes as the nation braces for the enforcement of stricter regulations aimed at curbing drug trafficking and abuse.
The new law, which received presidential assent this week, imposes harsh penalties for the production, trafficking, and consumption of narcotics and psychotropic substances.
Recognizing that some individuals may have relied on the illicit drug trade as a source of livelihood, the Council is advocating for the exploration of alternative income-generating activities.
During their regional meeting held in Fort Portal on Thursday, Rt. Rev Reuben Kisembo Amooti, the Ruwenzori diocese bishop who also doubles as the chairperson for the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda Tooro Chapter has called for alternative ways of survival for those that were dealing in Khat farming.
According to the bishop, these farmers can deal in coffee, macadamia and other alternatives that can bring income to their households.
The Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Law allows the licensed farming and use of marijuana strictly for medical use, and sets harsh penalties for a multitude of offences related to substances abuse.
The new law allows the cultivation of marijuana and khat strictly for medical and other authorized use, with extreme penalties included like forfeiture of properties and lengthy jail terms and hefty fines for violators.
It was passed by parliament in 2023.