Kigali Workshop Trains Journalists on Drug Addiction and Harm Reduction

A two-day training and engagement workshop was held in Kigali on May 28-29, 2026, for journalists and social media influencers. The sessions focused on harms associated with drug use, harm reduction strategies, and available support services. The workshop was organised under the Tubiteho project by Health Development Initiative (HDI) and partners with support from Expertise France.

It aimed to equip media practitioners with evidence-based knowledge to address misinformation and reduce stigma in reporting. Antoine Hagenimana, Senior Officer in charge of Management of Alcohol and Drug Use Disorders at Rwanda Biomedical Centre, said drug addiction is a chronic condition similar to hypertension or diabetes.

He stated that once dependence develops, many people require continuous medical, psychological and social support to recover.

6 per cent of youth in seven districts of Rwanda met the diagnosis criteria for alcohol use disorder. 2 per cent met the criteria for non-alcoholic psychoactive substance use disorders. Dynamo Ndacyayisenga, Director General of Kigali Mental Health Referral Centre, said supportive communities help people seek and stay in treatment.

He stated that recovery requires both professional intervention and a supportive environment without stigma. Ndacyayisenga also said it is time to stop pushing people who use drugs to the margins of society. He urged the public to see them as people who deserve professional assistance rather than as offenders or individuals lacking moral values.

Elvis Benimana, Tubiteho Project Lead at HDI, said harm reduction reduces risks and negative consequences associated with drug use. He stated that the approach ensures people already using drugs remain connected to health services and recovery opportunities.