Science and Regulation Key to Harm Reduction: Expert
Hanu pointed to Portugal's successful harm reduction approach as a potential model.
NAIROBI, Kenya — A Ghanaian harm reduction expert has called for increased investment in science-driven policies to address drug use, emphasizing the need for evidence-based interventions and comprehensive regulatory frameworks, writes Winston Mwale.
Samuel C.D. Hanu of the Harm Reduction Alliance told international experts and delegates Tuesday that harm reduction strategies aim to minimize negative consequences of human behaviors, both legal and illegal.
The 2024 Global State of Harm Reduction report reveals a slight increase in harm reduction services worldwide, though substantial regional differences persist.
Currently, 108 countries include harm reduction in national policies, but criminalization remains dominant in most regions.
Hanu highlighted critical challenges, including:
Persistent stigmatization of drug users
Limited funding for harm reduction programs
Punitive approaches that deter people from seeking services
The expert specifically called for increased investment in Eastern and Southern Africa, urging governments to redirect funding from punitive approaches to comprehensive harm reduction programs.
Addressing gender disparities, Hanu emphasized the need for gender-sensitive services that create safe spaces for women who use and inject drugs.
He recommended involving female peers to build trust and encourage participation.
Scientific innovations discussed included:
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Safer product development
Naloxone and vaccination technologies
Digital platforms for risk management
Emerging technologies like AI and biotech
Regulatory frameworks are crucial, Hanu argued, highlighting the importance of:
Product approvals
Safety standards
Taxation strategies
Marketing restrictions
The expert emphasized the need for context-specific, evidence-based interventions generated within African contexts.
Concluding his presentation, Hanu pointed to Portugal's successful harm reduction approach as a potential model.
He called for international collaboration, public-private partnerships, and community-based innovations.
"When science and policy align, the results save lives," Hanu told the audience, urging support for evidence-based harm reduction initiatives and global cooperation.