The Director of Isange Rehabilitation Center located in Huye District, Patrick Rwagatare, says that the majority of people seeking help at the center are men, most of whom began using drugs at a very young age, some starting as early as 10 years old.
Rwagatare explains that alcohol and marijuana are the most commonly abused substances among young people, with some even progressing to the use of cocaine. He notes that this continues to be a serious challenge for families and the wider community, largely fueled by family-related issues and poor upbringing.
He emphasizes that the family plays a major role in protecting children from drug abuse, stating that “when a child starts drinking alcohol at an early age, especially when combined with family problems, they easily become enslaved by these substances.” He adds that there are many substandard alcoholic drinks on the market, which lure young people into harmful habits at an early age.
Rwagatare says many people struggling with drug addiction fail to seek treatment early because they do not acknowledge their problem. He notes, “Rehabilitation services are expensive because some costs are not covered by the community-based health insurance (Mutuelle). However, advocacy is ongoing to ensure even the vulnerable can be supported.” He further stresses the need to invest more in prevention than in treatment, pointing out that a single patient may pay at least 11,500 Rwandan francs for care at the center.
Dr. Charles Kalinganire, a researcher and lecturer at the University of Rwanda in the Department of Social Work, says the primary cause of drug abuse among youth is poor parenting. “When parents fail to instill values or do not actively participate in raising their children, the children have a higher chance of turning to drugs. A tree is best shaped when it is still young.” He explains.
He urges parents not to focus solely on earning a living but to set aside time to follow up on their children, working together with community support systems.
Nakabonye Dative, founder of Family Circle Love Lab and the center “Vuga Ukire”, says that many mental health issues originate from childhood experiences, as people grow up carrying the emotional wounds of their past. “Not every mental health problem requires admission into major psychiatric facilities. Some people simply need to be listened to and supported early.” She notes.
All individuals struggling with drug addiction are encouraged to seek help promptly, while families are urged to safeguard and guide their children to prevent them from being drawn into destructive behaviors. Since its establishment in 2015, the Isange Rehabilitation Center in Huye has received over 3,000 clients. The center is currently treating 58 patients, including 55 men and 3 women, although it has the capacity to accommodate 100 patients per month.
