Since its establishment in 2016, Huye Isange Rehabilitation Center has treated over 3,000 people battling substance abuse and behavioral addictions, an official has told The New Times.

This specialized hospital located in Huye District is at the forefront of the country’s efforts to combat the growing challenge of addiction. According to Dr. Patrick Rwagatare, Director General of Isange Rehabilitation Center, majority of its patients struggle with alcohol addiction.

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"We also treat people addicted to marijuana, heroin locally known as ‘Mugo’, prescription tranquilizers, and behavioural addictions such as gambling and excessive sexual activity,” Dr. Rwagatare said.

He explained that addiction generally progresses through four stages. In the occasional use stage, people maintain control over their substance use and consume it sporadically, typically without requiring medical intervention.

However, as they enter the abusive use stage, their attraction to the substance increases, and self-control begins to falter, leading to more frequent use.

During the problematic use stage, daily consumption disrupts personal relationships, job performance, and family life. This behavior often results in escalating quantities of substance use.

Finally, he said, the dependency stage is marked by a complete loss of control. A person becomes fully reliant on the substance, experiences severe health deterioration, and often suffers from malnutrition as proper nutrition is neglected.

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Patients admitted to Isange Rehabilitation Center are typically in the last three stages. Treatments are tailored to the needs of each person, starting with a thorough evaluation to understand their addiction history, level of dependency, and psychological state.

"Our multidisciplinary team includes clinical psychologists, specialized nurses, and social workers to ensure holistic care,” said Dr. Rwagatare.

Addiction often coincides with underlying mental health issues, and the center’s approach addresses both simultaneously. Families are also engaged in the recovery process.

"Addiction impacts entire families. By involving them, we create a supportive environment that fosters recovery,” he added.

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Drug abuse remains a pressing issue in Rwanda, with youth being the most affected. The center reports that most patients are aged 20 to 40, with some cases involving people under 20.

Dr. Rwagatare said that the rise of substances like heroin, which was previously uncommon, has exacerbated the problem.

The cost of treatment at the center is structured to ensure accessibility. Patients pay Rwf8,200 per day in general or Rwf15,200 per day in advanced rooms which comes with a full package that includes meals and accommodation.

For medication, the center collaborates with insurance service providers to enhance affordability of the treatment. Beyond treatment, he said, the center actively works on prevention through community outreach programmes. These initiatives involve NGOs, recovered patients, and local communities, in efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.

"We emphasise the importance of prevention at the grassroots level. Addiction is a challenge anyone can face, but it is preventable,” said Dr. Rwagatare. He also emphasised the need to combat the stigma surrounding addiction

"Stigma creates barriers to recovery and reintegration. Patients should not be judged for their struggles but supported with compassion.”