Rwanda National Police

Sixty six drug addicts in Gicumbi district are undergoing a one and half month rehabilitation exercise to help them start a new focused life.

The exercise started on May 29 in Rukomo sector. Participants include consumers and traders.

Among the lessons they have so far covered is  the role of the youth in fighting and preventing drug dealing, Rwandan cultural  values, some  laws against drug abuse and other crimes, health hazards associated with use of drugs and role of the youth in the country's development.

Mayor of Gicumbi Alexandre Mvuyekure, while speaking to the youngsters urged them to re-write their bad past and be agents of change.

The District Police Commander, Senior Supt.  (SSP) Felix Bizimana cited assault, gender and domestic violence, theft and school drop-out as some of ill-effects of drug abuse.

“I used to sell Kanyanga and after getting drunk, some clients would fight resulting into injuries and  causing insecurity. Sometimes people look at their self interests but now I know what consuming illicit brew can cause and people should stop it,” Evariste Sibomana, 36 and father of seven, said.