On September 19, 2026, the Ministry of Youth and Culture, in collaboration with the Eastern Province administration and security organs, organized a unique community service event in Kibungo Sector, Ngoma District. The event, part of the #SoberGen initiative, brought together hundreds of young people to promote a sober generation and prevent substance abuse. The initiative aims to encourage young people to adopt healthy lifestyles and reject substance abuse.
The event featured popular artists, including comedian Sebasaza Daniel, known as Danizzo, and musician Nel Ngabo, who used their platforms to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse. They urged their fellow celebrities to join the fight against substance abuse, which they said can destroy lives. The artists emphasized that substance abuse can have severe consequences, including damaging one's future and overall well-being.
During the event, participants engaged in community service activities, including cleaning roadsides and waterways, in preparation for the upcoming rainy season. The goal was to promote a sense of responsibility and community involvement among young people. The event provided an opportunity for young people to come together and take action against substance abuse.
Parfait Ishungure, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Youth and Culture, emphasized that young people are the backbone of Rwanda's development and must be protected from substance abuse. He encouraged young people to prioritize their health and well-being, saying that substance abuse can hinder their ability to contribute to the country's development. Ishungure praised the #SoberGen initiative as a vital platform for promoting substance abuse prevention.
Pudence Rubingisa, Governor of Eastern Province, commended the young people for their active participation in the event and encouraged them to continue playing a role in addressing community challenges, particularly substance abuse. Rubingisa urged young people to report cases of substance abuse and to support their peers who may be struggling with addiction.
According to a report by the Rwanda National Police, 778 people were arrested and prosecuted for substance abuse-related offenses in the first six months of 2025, with over 87% of them being under the age of 40. Since January 1, 2026, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has registered 158 cases of substance abuse in the Eastern Province, with 20 of them coming from Ngoma District.
The event in Ngoma District demonstrated the commitment of young people to promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing substance abuse. The #SoberGen initiative has provided a platform for young people to take action against substance abuse and to encourage their peers to make positive choices. By working together, young people can create a safer and healthier community for themselves and future generations.
Key points
- The #SoberGen initiative aims to promote substance abuse prevention and healthy lifestyles among young people in Rwanda.
- The event in Ngoma District brought together hundreds of young people to participate in community service activities and raise awareness about substance abuse.
- According to the Rwanda National Police, over 87% of people arrested for substance abuse-related offenses in 2025 were under the age of 40.
