In the Gakenke village of Gatsibo District, a couple, Niyonsaba Joseline and Habimana Theoneste, have shared their inspiring story of overcoming addiction and domestic violence. Their journey to recovery began when they were selected to participate in a counseling program aimed at helping families in severe conflicts. The program, initiated by local authorities, provided them with guidance and support to address their issues.
According to Joseline, her husband's excessive drinking habits had caused significant problems in their household, including frequent fights and financial struggles. She described how her husband would often return home late at night, drunk, and spend the little money he earned on alcohol instead of providing for their family. This situation led to a breakdown in communication and a lack of harmony in their home.
Habimana, on the other hand, acknowledged his past mistakes and expressed regret for the pain he had caused his family. He admitted to being an alcoholic and neglecting his responsibilities, which often left his family struggling to make ends meet. However, with the help of the counseling program, he was able to reflect on his actions and make a conscious decision to change his behavior.
The couple's decision to seek help and work on their issues has led to significant positive changes in their lives. Habimana quit drinking and began to focus on his responsibilities, while Joseline started to see improvements in their relationship. They began to communicate more effectively, and their home became a more peaceful and harmonious place.
As a result of their progress, the couple has become an example for others in their community. They have started to rebuild their lives, and their relationship has become stronger. They have also become more financially stable, with Habimana working hard to provide for his family and Joseline managing the household effectively.
Mukamana Marcelline, the Deputy Mayor of Gatsibo District in charge of social welfare, praised the couple for their efforts and encouraged others to follow their example. She emphasized that the local government is committed to supporting families in need and providing them with the necessary resources to overcome their challenges.
The Gatsibo District has been working to address issues of domestic violence and addiction, particularly in the Ngarama and Kiziguro sectors, which have reported high numbers of households affected by these problems. The success story of Niyonsaba and Habimana serves as a beacon of hope for others who may be struggling with similar issues.
Key points
- The couple's story highlights the importance of seeking help and support to overcome addiction and domestic violence.
- Local authorities are committed to providing resources and support to families in need.
- The couple's progress serves as an example for others in their community to work towards building stronger, more harmonious relationships.