On September 19, 2026, a special youth gathering was held in Karongi District, Rubengera Sector, Gacaca Cell, aimed at promoting cleanliness and clearing waterways across the country. The event, organized by the youth, sought to encourage young people to participate in development activities and avoid substance abuse. The gathering was attended by Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion Mireille Batamuliza, and other security and local leaders.
Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, urged the youth to avoid substance abuse and instead utilize their potential to build the country. He emphasized that a sober and focused youth is essential for Rwanda's development, stating that the country needs young people with undamaged brains to move forward. Dr. Nsanzimana revealed that since the launch of the " War on Byumba" campaign, over 20 million liters of prohibited substances have been confiscated.
Dr. Nsanzimana highlighted that continued consumption of these substances would lead to health and social problems. He encouraged those still holding or hiding these substances to surrender them to the relevant authorities, warning that failure to do so would result in prosecution. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Namuhoranye stated that the campaign against substance abuse is yielding results, with crimes related to substance abuse decreasing.
IGP Namuhoranye noted that crimes such as assault, injury, and other offenses linked to substance abuse are declining. He expressed satisfaction with the public's cooperation in abandoning bad habits and encouraged the youth to work with government and security agencies to build a better Rwanda. The police chief urged the youth to reject substance abuse, citing its negative impact on their future and the country's development.
Frederic Nzamuramabaho, a youth from Rubengera Sector, shared his personal story of overcoming substance abuse. He revealed that he had been a victim of substance abuse and had spent four stints at the Ngororamuco Rehabilitation Center before finally deciding to change his life. Nzamuramabaho encouraged his peers to make positive decisions and contribute to the country's development.
Nzamuramabaho emphasized that anyone can change their life and overcome substance abuse with determination. He urged the youth to work together to build a better future for Rwanda, stressing that they are the leaders of tomorrow. The event aimed to inspire and motivate young people to make positive choices and shun substance abuse.
The campaign against substance abuse is part of a broader effort to promote youth development and prevent social ills in Rwanda. Key stakeholders, including government officials, security agencies, and local leaders, are working together to support the youth in making positive choices. Three key points emerged from the event: the need for youth to avoid substance abuse, the importance of collaboration between youth and government agencies, and the potential for young people to contribute to Rwanda's development.
Key points
- Rwandan police are cracking down on substance abuse among youth.
- Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana urges youth to avoid substance abuse.
- IGP Namuhoranye reports a decline in crimes related to substance abuse.
