Evidence shows that drugs are widely available, and young people are the first to turn to them. In Burundi, young people represent 70% of the population. Drug users are primarily between the ages of 15 and 35, according to Psychologue Sans Vacances and accounts from those who have recovered. The main substances consumed—whether orally, through inhalation, or by injection—include cigarettes, alcohol, beer, cocaine, booster, and cannabis. Of the 567 individuals welcomed at the center, 163 made the decision to quit.
Under the theme “The facts are there, invest in prevention,” three organizations joined forces to combat drug use. The Burundi Scout Association (ASB), Psychologue Sans Vacances (PSV), and Strong Bridge organized a sensitization campaign against drug abuse and its illicit trafficking on June 28, 2025, marking the day celebrated annually on June 26. Drugs are essentially poisons, depending on their effects, and their quantities can be fatal. Testimonies reveal that people often use drugs hoping to change their lives—but in vain. A person’s good reputation can be destroyed by drug use, which interferes with mental clarity and ultimately ruins millions of lives.
Drugs as a Barrier to Development
« When we talk about drugs, people see it as simple, but their consequences destroy humanity », said Alain Joseph Hatungimana
Alain Joseph Hatungimana, a representative of PSV, emphasized:
« When we talk about drugs, people see it as simple, but their consequences destroy human life, families, security, and the economy. The country loses far more because users are young people, expected to support themselves and contribute to national development. »
He added that research shows drug users are mostly between 15 and 35 years old—individuals considered pillars of their families and the country. « That is why we say no to all kinds of drugs. Those who lie to us about drugs giving energy or refreshment are misleading; in reality, drugs weaken the user. »
Hatungimana explained that users who steal or lie at home or in their neighborhoods do so as a consequence of drug use, not by choice. He stressed the importance of combating both drug abuse and illicit trafficking, declaring: « We say no by showing the effects and consequences of drugs—for the user, their future, the economy, families, and the country. »
Reaching Burundi’s vision of becoming an emergent country by 2040 and a developed country by 2060 will be difficult if young people continue using drugs. The country spends significant funds treating diseases such as cancer, sexually transmitted infections, diabetes, respiratory infections, and mental illnesses, whose treatments are complex and costly. Many families misunderstand mental illnesses, often attributing them to curses.
To prevent drug use, PSV, ASB, and Strong Bridge engage directly with users who lack support. The organizations provide guidance and treatment through Strong Bridge and PSV. Interviews revealed that most users did not start using drugs voluntarily. « One of my colleagues told me he went where drugs were used and realized the consequences after starting—everything has a cause, » one testimony noted. Hatungimana summarized: « No one chooses to use drugs; it results from other causes. For those who haven’t started, there is no reason to begin. »
Viateur Ciza, coordinator of Strong Bridge and legal representative of Hope for Family, warned:
« Drug traffickers, understand that you are destroying users and the country. The money you earn is the blood of our children. While we cannot fight your poison business alone, your willingness to stop can contribute to the nation’s development. »
Of the 567 drug users welcomed at Strong Bridge, about 300 relapsed due to neighborhood influences, but 163 successfully quit.
Parental Involvement to Prevent Drug Use
« Drug traffickers, understand that you are destroying users and the country », emphasized Viateur Ciza
Viateur Ciza stressed the role of families, pointing out that some children are orphans in spirit even if their parents are alive. He advised parents:
« Fathers and mothers, your guidance is crucial to educate your children, neighbors, and the country. »
He observed that affection often breaks down between children and parents, leaving young people vulnerable. Strong Bridge encourages parents to spend time with their children, know their friends, participate in daily life, share meals, and communicate. These simple actions help prevent youth from falling into drug use.
Ciza also reminded local representatives that young people, who make up 70% of citizens, are expected to contribute to Burundi’s development. « Come out of your offices at least once a month to verify if your duties are being executed and encourage youth to work for their growth, » he urged.
Testimonies and Facts
« I spent 5 million francs on drugs with nothing left for myself », testified Kalvin, an ex-drug user.
Life on the street often leads to social isolation and self-neglect. Kalvin, an ex-drug user, shared his story:
« I started using drugs at 13 after my parent passed away. I began with cigarettes and beer, which are considered normal in Burundi, even among parents and neighbors. Later, I used cannabis and cocaine, trying to emulate celebrities I admired in movies. »
He described severe addiction:
« I didn’t sleep, became jealous, suffered from nosebleeds, and consumed up to 100g of cocaine per day. I spent 5 million francs on drugs with nothing left for myself. I even thought of selling myself, forgetting my own value. »
Kalvin eventually tried heroin and injectable drugs, becoming homeless and living on the streets. Strong Bridge intervened, and after multiple attempts, he successfully followed their treatment plan. He reflected: « Every drug victim needs a caring person to help change their life. »
« Strong Bridge helped me recover. Now, I am sober and faithful », confirmed Mrs Blandine, an ex-drug user.
Mrs. Blandine also shared her experience:
« I became addicted to booster drugs while living on the streets. My husband, already addicted, introduced me to drugs. I became pregnant, gave birth with help from a kind neighbor, and faced extreme hardships. Strong Bridge helped me recover, providing food, clothes, and guidance. Now, I am sober and faithful. God bless Mr. Viateur Ciza. »
Education and Prevention Are Everyone’s Responsibility
« Responsible and socially engaged youth cannot be addicted to drugs », indicated Philbert Ndayisaba
Philbert Ndayisaba, commissioner general of the Burundi Scout Association, emphasized that responsible and socially engaged youth cannot be addicted to drugs. He advised scouts to serve as role models in their communities, encouraging drug users to quit.
He stressed that prevention begins at home. Parents and adult scouts should educate children on drugs, monitor their behavior, and encourage participation in positive activities. « If we see drug users in our communities and remain silent, we contribute nothing. Prevention is everyone’s responsibility. »
In collaboration with PSV and Strong Bridge, the scouts train members to understand why some youth start using drugs and how to help prevent new cases.
Sostine Niyonkuru, in charge of social, political, and legal matters in Ntahangwa Commune, called for school-based training on drug effects and prevention, as well as increased parental awareness and family dialogue.