Substance Abuse and Girls’ Education in Kanyinya, Rwanda
Location:
Kanyinya, Kigali, Rwanda
Art Medium:
Mural
Partner:
Club Rafiki
Artist:
Jemimah Kakizi
The Challenge
In Kanyinya, a village near a mining zone, girls from the Sauti ya Dada (SYD) Club interviewed over 300 community members—including students, parents, teachers, and local leaders—to identify the biggest barriers to girls’ education. They found that substance abuse was a major obstacle, as money earned from mining is often spent on alcohol and drugs, leading to family instability and neglect of children’s education. In many households, boys’ education is prioritized, meaning girls are more likely to be sent home for unpaid fees and, with little support system, many never return.
The Action
In response, the SYD girls launched a campaign to raise awareness about how substance abuse affects girls’ education. They painted a public mural and used community events like Umuganda (monthly service days) and weekly parent meetings to share their message. Through storytelling and personal testimonies, they highlighted the link between addiction, family conflict, and school dropout. Their message resonated deeply. Local officials, including the council leader and executive secretary, pledged to support change through family mediation and continued partnership with the SYD Club. Community members began to recognize girls’ education as a shared responsibility.
The Impact
• Parents, after recognizing that substance abuse impacts their daughters’ education, are now meeting monthly and having conversations that are guided by the themes in the mural.
• The CAP sparked behavior change and more conversation at home. Two girls shared that parents are drinking less, which has reduced family conflict. Girls also report that the community event is sparking constructive conversations at home.
Photo Gallery
