Community Leaders Unite to Fight Substance Abuse and Gender-Based Violence in IDP Camps
Many of the internally displaced people (IDP) in Northern Uganda’s camps are at high risk for alcoholism, drug abuse, gender-based violence, and depression. While alcohol abuse feeds into a cycle of violence, it also feeds into a cycle of poverty. The most serious social and health problems associated with the harmful use of alcohol are high risk sexual behaviors and gender-based violence (GBV), leading to the spread of HIV.
In response to these problems, the International Medical Corps (IMC) is implementing a multi-pronged PEPFAR-funded program that seeks, among many things, to stem the availability of alcohol within the camps by empowering women with livelihood alternatives. In Trading Posts in Kitgum and Pader, temporary community halls and satellite bars are becoming permanent structures. IMC is using these social gathering spots to install free condom dispensers, play HIV/AIDS Prevention videos, and engage young men in conversations about health and social issues.
Additionally, they have placed trained community volunteers at the forefront of community-based efforts to prevent substance abuse and gender-based violence. These volunteers improve community knowledge, attitudes and behaviors regarding substance abuse, GBV and its connection to the spread of HIV, provide referrals, and coordinate with other local authorities about abuse cases that require intervention. To support these groups, IMC published a ‘Community Educator’s Handbook’ that gives information about human rights, Ugandan law, harmful traditional, ways to support the abused, ways men can help mitigate problems, and legal definitions of crimes and punishments.
These communities have reported a reduction in the use of alcohol, as well as a reduction in GBV. People are coming out willingly with their problems of Substance Abuse, SGBV and HIV/AIDS. The Community Educators are providing counseling and have formed support group meetings such as Alcohol Anonymous Groups. Perhaps more importantly, IMC is facilitating communities to prevent and respond to alcohol, substance abuse and gender based violence, challenges that will persist when they transit to return villages. With programs like this one, local groups are rebuilding their communities. The result is a renewed capacity to manage local problems and a renewed hope for peace and prosperity.