Findings indicate that heroin use may not be very different from that in many other African countries. However, the abuse of drugs, especially cocaine and heroin, is increasing. The problems posed by alcohol consumption, particularly by females, are also increasing. The growing drug problems is reflected in the increasing number of specialized facilities for the treatment of addiction. However, no broad-based studies have been conducted and drug use behavior among youth needs further study. Efforts by government and voluntary agencies to deal with the problem of drug abuse have usually not been sustained due to lack of funds. The lack of available data is also a major problem in assessing drug use patterns. Regional epidemiological surveys carried out regularly by agencies of the United Nations would be a way to address this problem. These surveys could be supplemented by national surveys and a reporting system within countries that would ensure the monitoring of clinical and other data. 20 references. (Author abstract modified)