The campaign, which aims to promote a "Sober Generation," was launched on a special Car Free Sports Day in Gakenke district, attracting large numbers of residents. The event featured various sports activities, including football, volleyball, and taekwondo, as well as traditional games such as agati. Queen Kalimpinya, a rally driver, addressed the participants, emphasizing the importance of staying on track and seeking help when needed.
According to Queen Kalimpinya, life is like a rally, and a wrong turn does not necessarily mean the end of the race. She encouraged residents to stay sober and focused, and to seek help if they are struggling with addiction. The district has already made significant progress in its anti-drug campaign, disposing of over 7,500 liters of illicit drugs valued at Rwf18 million and closing hundreds of bars operating in substandard conditions.
The Mayor of Gakenke district emphasized the importance of protecting young people and helping them develop discipline and make positive choices. He noted that most of the district's residents will be adults by 2050 and that it is crucial to have sober and responsible citizens who can contribute to the country's development. The district is also planning to upgrade its stadium and support its women's football team as part of its sports development plans.
Northern Province Governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde joined the event, highlighting the importance of sports in keeping young people engaged and building positive habits. He cautioned that the environment in which young people grow up matters and that the campaign must also reach homes, encouraging residents to surrender illicit drugs and alcohol. Governor Mugabowagahunde emphasized that sports can play a critical role in shaping the future of young people.
Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire also participated in the event, emphasizing that the idea of a sober generation should not be reduced to a slogan. She urged young people to avoid drugs and illicit alcohol and make sports a part of their lives. The minister noted that a sober generation means youths who are disciplined, know the right decisions to take, and can improve their lives.
The district's anti-drug campaign has already achieved significant success, with over 120,000 young people in the district benefiting from the initiative. The campaign aims to promote a culture of sobriety and responsibility among young people, and the use of sports as a tool to achieve this goal has been well-received by residents. The event was attended by various leaders, including the Sports Minister and Northern Province Governor.
The campaign's focus on sports and community engagement is seen as a positive step towards addressing the issue of drug and illicit alcohol abuse in Gakenke district. By promoting a culture of sobriety and responsibility, the district hopes to create a brighter future for its young people. The use of sports as a tool for social change has been recognized as an effective way to reach young people and promote positive behaviors.
Key points
- The campaign has disposed of over 7,500 liters of illicit drugs valued at Rwf18 million and closed hundreds of bars operating in substandard conditions.
- The district is planning to upgrade its stadium and support its women's football team as part of its sports development plans.
- The campaign aims to promote a culture of sobriety and responsibility among young people, with a focus on helping them develop discipline and make positive choices.
