Cannabis, “Tratra”, “5/5″… at the top of the most consumed drugs in Benin.

In Benin, cannabis remains the most consumed substance among individuals apprehended in public spaces, ghettos, kiosks, and bus stations. It is followed by counterfeit medications, whose consumption worries the authorities due to health risks, particularly among young people.

This observation was made in Nikki, in the Borgou department, during the 39th World Drug Day, celebrated on Friday, June 26, 2026. The official ceremony was chaired by the Minister Delegated to the President of the Republic, in charge of the Interior and Security, Djibril Mama Cissé, in the presence of the prefects of Alibori, Borgou, and Donga.

According to Major General of Police Didier Atchou, permanent secretary of the Interministerial Commission for the Fight Against Drug Abuse and Psychotropic Substances, the observed trends in Benin show a strong predominance of cannabis. The data mentioned particularly relate to monitoring consumers apprehended in certain public places.

Behind cannabis, the authorities also report a notable consumption of counterfeit medications. These products, sold under various local names, circulate outside regular pharmaceutical channels and pose a health danger to consumers. Their use is particularly concerning due to their normalization in certain environments and the exposure of young people to these substances.

In contrast, the consumption of hard drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin, remains low according to the indications presented during this day. Nevertheless, the authorities are calling for increased vigilance, in a context marked by the diversification of markets and the evolution of trafficking networks.

A Response Between Repression and Care

In his speech, Minister Djibril Mama Cissé reminded the need to adapt strategies against drug use. The theme chosen for the 2026 edition, “The Global Drug Problem: Persistent Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” reflects this desire to strengthen the national response to a changing phenomenon.

The fight initiated by the government relies on several levers. Security services, including the Police, Customs, and Waters and Forests, as well as specialized jurisdictions and structures, are mobilized to curb the illicit trafficking of drugs and psychotropic substances.

However, the approach advocated by the authorities is not limited to repression. The government also emphasizes the care of dependent individuals, through the strengthening of detoxification facilities, psychosocial support, and social reintegration.

This orientation marks a desire to treat drug issues not only as a security matter but also as a public health problem. For the authorities, prevention, awareness, and support must accompany control and sanction actions.