More rehab centres for drug addicts in the pipeline

The Minister of Youth, Jean Philbert Nsengimana has said that the government is planning to establish more rehabilitation centres for drug addicts in the country. The country only has Iwawa Rehabilitation and Vocational Training centre at Iwawa Island that accommodates males only. The centre was established to help empower former street children with employable skills and entrepreneurial capacity. Most of the children were alcohol and drug addicts. “This is something we need to do urgently because having only one rehabilitation centre, which accommodates males only, is not enough, there are also females who are drug addicts and who need to be rehabilitated as well,” he asserted. Nsengimana told Sunday Times yesterday that the December,2011 high level national meeting on alcohol and drug abuse among the youth, came up with a strong resolution to set up more rehabilitation centres. “We are planning to budget for them in the next financial year. This is something serious that needs much attention. Plans to establish youth friendly counselling centres are also in place,” he noted. He also called upon young people who indulge in drug abuse to stop the vice and engage in activities that promote the country’s social and economic development. Recently during the forum on alcohol and drug abuse, the First Lady, Jeannette Kagame reminded parents to assume their roles and talk to the youth about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. She also requested lawmakers to come out with clear legislative guidelines on alcohol and drug abuse. frank.kanyesigye@newtimes.co.rw