04/08/2024
ARUKAH HOUSE UGANDA SCHOOLS PROGRAM.
Dear Partner and friends of Arukah house Uganda ,
I hope this finds you well. I am writing to provide a comprehensive report on the recent missions undertaken by Arukah House Uganda in the Western region. Our missions aimed to address pressing issues of addiction such as substance abuse, po*******hy, ma********on, s*x, gambling, and mental health issues, particularly among young people in schools.
Recent Mission Overview
From March 6th to March 23rd, a dedicated team of 16 members, comprising former addicts from the Arukah house rehabilitation program and volunteers, embarked on a journey to engage with communities and educational institutions. Throughout this period, we conducted impactful sessions in 20 secondary schools, 2 tertiary institutions, and Bishop Stuart University in Mbarara. Additionally, we visited 3 main prisons to extend our support and guidance.
Our findings revealed alarming statistics concerning gambling, substance abuse, and mental health issues among young people, significantly affecting their academic performance and future prospects. The surge in dropouts, su***des, and premature deaths among the youth underscored the urgency of our intervention. Arukah House Uganda is committed to providing sustainable solutions to combat these challenges.
2nd term Mission in Western Uganda
Between 27th June and 30th July, our team of 13 members, along with counselors, embarked on another transformative mission across nine districts in Western Uganda: Mbarara, Mbarara City, Rwampara, Ibanda, Isingiro, Ntungamo, Sheema, and Bushenyi.
Sensitization Campaign in Schools
- Coverage:48 schools across the nine districts
- Focus:Equipping young people with skills and knowledge to deal with addictions and mental health issues
- Method: Interactive sessions, practical workshops, and inspirational talks (testimonies)
Teacher and Parents Training Sessions
- Objective:Train teachers and parents to identify and address addiction and mental health issues early
- Approach:Provide tools and techniques for proactive intervention
- Outcome:Empower teachers and parents to support students effectively
Addressing Critical Issues
Our focus extends to addressing major addictions such as po*******hy, ma********on, and gambling. These issues have been linked to drastic academic decline, school dropouts, poverty, self-neglect, su***de, and severe mental health challenges. By tackling these problems head-on, we aim to prevent their damaging consequences and offer young people better ways to cope.
The Bigger Picture:
Mental Health and Addiction Statistics
Global Perspective
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting over 264 million people.
- Approximately 3 million people die annually due to harmful use of alcohol, which represents 5.3% of all deaths.
- The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports that around 35 million people suffer from drug use disorders globally.
National Perspective (Uganda)
- The Uganda Ministry of Health estimates that 14 million Ugandans are affected by mental health conditions.
- Alcohol use disorder is a significant issue, with WHO noting that the prevalence of alcohol dependence in Uganda is one of the highest in the world.
- A study by Butabika National Referral Hospital revealed that mental health issues are on the rise, particularly among the youth, with substance abuse being a leading cause.
Our Recommendations
In response to our findings, we recommend the implementation of specialized training programs for teachers, chaplains, senior women, club patrons, and youth workers. These programs will focus on identifying and assisting young people struggling with various forms of addiction and mental health issues. By equipping key stakeholders with the necessary skills and knowledge, we can create a supportive environment conducive to the holistic development of our youth.
Gratitude to Our Partners
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our special partners who made this mission possible: Ankole Diocese Youth Children's Department, Media Group western region, National Drug Authority Substance Abuse prevention program, Refix Foundation, CNI led by Dr. Timothy Nduhukire, Your World Counseling Center Mbarara, Pacesetters Initiative for Africa, Counseling Department Mbarara High School, Pastor Lydia Kananura, Mr. Harris kukundakwe, Mrs Docus Kuhimbisa, Mr and Mrs Ntuumwa, Mr and Mrs kamuntu,Plus Two High School, Word and Deed Kabale, and others. Your unwavering support and collaboration are invaluable to our cause.
- Total Schools Visited (First and Second Terms): 70 schools, including Seroma Christian High School in Mukono and Vine International Christian Academy in Kungu, Wakiso District.
- Total Individuals Reached: 21,000+58450=79450
- Total Salvations/Addiction Confessions:3,060+4865=7925.
LOOKING AHEAD
For the third term, we aim to reach an additional 30 schools in wakiso, Mpigi, Kampala and mukono districts bringing our total to 100 schools. Additionally, we plan to visit 6 universities and tertiary institutions to further expand our impact.
As we reflect on our accomplishments, we also recognize the pressing needs and challenges ahead. Arukah House Uganda requires stable means of transportation, a reliable camera, a public address system, as well as accommodation and sustenance for our dedicated team. These resources are essential for the effective ex*****on of our future missions.
Join Our Cause
We invite you to support our mission in any way you can. Whether through donations, partnerships, or spreading the word, every bit helps in our fight against addiction and mental health issues.
Contact Us
For more information on how you can get involved, please contact us at [your contact information].
Together, we can make a difference.
Warm regards,
BERNARD NGOBOKA
Team Leader
Arukah House Uganda
[email protected]
+256774807619.
+256701807619.
