Alcohol and Drug Prevention

The problem of drug and alcohol abuse in Rwanda is complex and demands a coordinated and highly integrated approach. In 2014 Association des Guides du Rwanda has launched an anti-substance abuse program in the districts of Nyagatare, Rusizi, Rubavu, Nyabihu, Kicukiro and Bugesera where the trafficking of alcohol and drugs is high in these regions.

Girl Guides lead community initiatives to educate the harmfulness of alcohol and drugs

The ultimate goal was to raise awareness in order to reduce the amount of drugs and alcohol being consumed by youth in and out of schools. For three years, the program has greatly impacted the lives of thousands youth, children, parents and teachers living in the zone of intervention. Some changes are observable in communities, schools and rehabilitation centers for street children in the intervention sectors.

The youth have adopted a sober life so that they can finish their studies and earn a decent life. Parents and teachers also have reduced consumption of illicit drugs and alcohol to be able to provide for their families and protect them from violence.

AGR works with partners to prevent alcohol and drug abuse.

In 2017 we launched the second phase of “No to Alcohol and Drugs Abuse” program, which will run across the country from 2017 to 2021. Funded by IOGT – NTO Movement, this initiative will now be implemented through Girl Guides troops and youth rehabilitation centers. In 2017, we have focused on integrating this program in the Girl Guiding National Educational Programs, delivered by trained troop leaders.

Formalizing strategies to mitigate alcohol and drugs with the Districts Taskforce Committees

Apart from educating our members on alcohol related issues, Girl Guides are trained and empowered to sensitize the community, youth, parents and teachers on the effects of alcohol and drugs while encouraging them to collaborate with the police in stopping the traffic of illicit beverages and drugs. Our districts of implementations include Burera,Rusizi, Rubavu, Nyagatare, Bugesera, Kirehe, Kicukiro, Rwamagana and Huye.

AGR is also working with partners to advocate for a robust National Alcohol Policy to further provide comprehensive alcohol prevention initiatives, which include education, early intervention, environmental management, harm reduction, and assessment strategies.

Through this project, AGR is proud member of Movendi Internationational and East Africa Alcohol Policy Alliance , and a partner to Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) and Christian Movement for Evangelisation, Counselling and Reconciliation (MOUCECORE)