In a special edition Youth Forum on the national TunyweLess campaign, First Lady Jeannette Kagame emphasized the need for a collective effort to understand and address the root causes of alcoholism in Rwandan society.
The campaign, known as “TunyweLess,” aims to curb the rise in alcohol consumption through various means, including media outreach.
During the forum, which brought together 1,000 young people, health experts, artists, professionals, and mental health advocates, the First Lady highlighted the importance of identifying and comprehending the underlying reasons for alcohol abuse. She stated, “Every time we overlook the bad behaviors, it promotes individualism, yet, as Rwandans, it is in our nature to work together… we should identify the root causes of alcoholism, understand its consequences and put in collective effort to curb it.”
Noting the alarming increase in alcohol consumption, especially among those below 18 years old, the First Lady expressed concern about the impact of alcohol abuse on all aspects of life. She emphasized the need to prevent and eradicate extreme alcoholism to protect the well-being of individuals, families, and society as a whole, stating, “We cannot build a country and ignore what destroys human lives.”
Dr. Yvan Butera, the State Minister for Health, emphasized the severe physiological and emotional effects of alcohol abuse, particularly on youth. He highlighted its impact on brain development, leading to disorders and various non-communicable diseases.
The forum also featured personal testimonies, including one from Alain Nshimiyamana, the founder of Save Lives Foundation, who shared his journey from alcohol addiction to rehabilitation. The event aimed to raise awareness and provide support for those struggling with alcoholism.
The First Lady’s call for collective action underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of alcoholism to safeguard the well-being of Rwandans and build a healthier society. The TunyweLess campaign serves as a crucial platform for promoting responsible drinking and combating the adverse consequences of alcohol abuse.