Factors Influencing Drug Abuse among Youth in Wadajir District Mogadishu, Somalia

Drug abuse among adolescents is a critical global issue, particularly in regions like Wadajir district, Mogadishu, Somalia, where unemployment, poverty, and prolonged conflict exacerbate the problem. This study investigates the factors influencing drug abuse among youth in this area, highlighting the role of peer pressure, family dynamics, and socio-economic conditions. The increasing use of substances such as tramadol is linked to socio-economic instability and rising crime rates. Despite its urgency, comprehensive research on Somali youth and drug abuse remains limited, employing a descriptive cross- sectional design, the study targets 200 participants affected by drug abuse, selected through convenient random sampling. Data collection will utilize structured questionnaires, analyzed using SPSS, with results presented through descriptive statistics. The study emphasizes reliability and validity while acknowledging limitations such as lack of resources and transportation challenges. Ethical considerations, including participant privacy and informed consent, are prioritized, the findings aim to inform evidence-based prevention and rehabilitation programs tailored to the needs of Wadajir youth. By examining the interplay of environmental, socio-economic, and demographic factors, this research seeks to empower youth and their families, ultimately fostering healthier communities and improving the well-being of Somali adolescents.