The explosion of illicit drug trafficking in West Africa is a worrying problem that deserves our full attention. According to a recent report from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), between 20% and 60% of medicines on the region’s market are counterfeit. This alarming figure even reaches 80% in countries like Burkina Faso and Guinea.
The reasons for this situation are multiple. First of all, the weakness of regulations regarding medicines, combined with corruption, favors the development of this trafficking. In addition, the lack of local production of medicines and the globalization of trade complicate the control of product quality and the monitoring of counterfeits.
Two traffic circuits can be distinguished. The first is entirely illegal, with shipments of drugs coming from clandestine factories set up in countries like Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria and Ghana, as well as in Asia. These products are then sold by street sellers or in markets. The second circuit concerns legally produced medicines, which are diverted at different points in the supply chain to end up in the hands of traffickers.
The Covid-19 crisis has also contributed to the growth of this traffic. Stock shortages of medicines have pushed populations to turn to illicit alternatives, which are more easily available. In addition, the absence of legislation penalizing drug trafficking encourages criminal networks to continue their activities.
To combat this scourge, it is essential to strengthen regulations and controls in the pharmaceutical sector. Governments of countries in the region must put in place effective measures to track traffickers and seize counterfeit medicines. It is also crucial to raise awareness among the population about the dangers of using these illegal products, which can put their health at risk.
In conclusion, illicit drug trafficking in West Africa is a growing problem that requires immediate action. By strengthening regulations, fighting corruption and raising public awareness, we will be able to effectively combat this scourge and guarantee access to quality medicines for all.