Teen Challenge Global has enhanced the capacity of its representatives across East Africa through a five-day training held in Kigali.
The workshop brought together participants from Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, focusing on strengthening skills and sharing knowledge in addressing drug addiction.
The training aimed to equip staff with practical tools to better support young people in rehabilitation centers and correctional facilities, helping them overcome addiction and rebuild their lives.
Participants were also introduced to the “Living Free” program, a faith-based initiative designed to guide individuals toward personal transformation and a healthier, drug-free lifestyle. The program is widely used in churches to support individuals seeking lasting change.
Pastor Willy Rumenera, Director of Teen Challenge, East African Sub-region, emphasized that overcoming drug addiction is achievable, though challenging.
He highlighted numerous success stories, noting that former addicts have gone on to become respected professionals, including religious leaders, entrepreneurs, soldiers, and university graduates.
“In some countries, people who once struggled with addiction have even risen to become national leaders,” he said.
Rumenera stressed the importance of community support, urging families not to stigmatize individuals battling addiction but instead to offer encouragement and guidance.
He called on families and faith-based institutions to play an active role in both prevention and recovery efforts.
“We need to educate communities so they understand how to protect young people from falling into addiction, and how to support those who are trying to recover,” he added.
Pastor Peter Delahoya, Staff member of Teen Challenge Kenya and Teen Challenge graduate, who spent many years addicted to drugs, says that the teachings of this organization transformed him, and he became a servant of God and a responsible parent.
After more than 15 years of substance abuse, including alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, and injectable drugs, and endless fighting.
“Joining Teen Challenge in 2008 completely transformed my life,” he said, adding that the Kigali training will help him support others on their recovery journey.
Anne Asiimwe, a staff member of Teen Challenge Uganda, noted that drug use remains a serious issue in her country.
She expressed confidence that the knowledge gained from the training will significantly improve their work.
“These trainings will help us greatly. I have learned many things we need to transform the lives of our students, guide them toward Christ, and help them live in joy free from drugs,” Anne said
Greg Fischer, an expert at Teen Challenge Global, described the training as a critical step in expanding the organization’s impact in East Africa.
He explained that Teen Challenge combines discipline, behavioral guidance, and spiritual teachings rooted in the Word of God to help individuals achieve lasting recovery.
“It’s meaningful to be here, working with teams committed to helping people live healthy, drug-free lives. I believe this will create real change,” he said.
Through these “Training of Trainers” sessions, East Africa now has its own Teen Challenge trainers, making it the first sub-region on the continent to reach that level.
Founded in the United States, Teen Challenge operates in more than 140 countries worldwide. The organization remains committed to helping young people break free from addiction and build meaningful, productive lives.
Gabriel UZABAKIRIHO / KIGALI TIMES