Project title: Transforming Dimma Youths from Substance Abuse to Entrepreneurs through an Interactive Project
Project information
- Location: Dimma, Gambella, Ethiopia
- Beneficiaries: Youths
- Start Date: As soon as the adequate resourses secured
- End Date: ongoing
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Partners:
- Dimma Woreda Administration
- Dimma Woreda Health Department
- Dimma Woreda Women and Youths Department
- Witing for funders as partners
In Dimma, a town in the Gambella region, many young people are trapped in a cycle of substance abuse. Take 16-year-old Ojulu, for example; he once aspired to be a gold mining investor, but now he spends his earnings on alcohol, khat, and drugs, which have led to severe health issues, including HIV and Hepatitis B. Ojulu’s experience is not unique; one in two youths in Dimma grapples with substance abuse, contributing to an alarming HIV and hepatitis prevalence of 8%, significantly higher than in other regions of Ethiopia.
The youth in Dimma, predominantly from the Anuak ethnic group, spend several days each month mining gold. The income they generate often surpasses that of a general practitioner in Ethiopia, fueling a lifestyle centered around substance use. This has resulted in the proliferation of bars and alcohol-selling establishments, exacerbating the issue.
Our project aims to leverage peer influence to combat substance abuse and promote HIV awareness. Recognizing the social nature of Dimma’s youth, we plan to establish a recreational and training center where they can gather for activities such as basketball, table tennis, video games, and virtual reality games. The center will serve non-alcoholic beverages, providing a safe environment for fun without harmful influences, and will be managed by a youth association led by positive role models.
In addition to recreational activities, we will establish a nearby counseling and substance abuse therapy center. This facility will offer life skills training, entrepreneurship guidance, and HIV testing and counseling. Rather than directly approaching youth for counseling, we’ll engage them through enjoyable activities. Trained peer leaders will subtly encourage their friends to utilize counseling services, promoting healthier behaviors within their social circles.
Contribute to this project
Our long-term vision encompasses tailored substance abuse therapy, behavioral counseling, and entrepreneurship education. We aim to empower youths like Ojulu to save money from gold mining and invest in sustainable businesses instead of spending it on substances. HIV testing and counseling will also be integral to the project, linking those who test positive to health centers for antiretroviral treatment and ongoing support.
To ensure the project's sustainability, we will charge a small fee for select gaming activities while keeping most services free. This model will cover operational costs and support trained youth leaders. The local government has committed to providing land for the project once funding is secured, with additional costs addressed through initial funding and ongoing fundraising efforts.
Your generous donations will play a crucial role in making this vision a reality. Every contribution, whether $10, $50, or $100, will empower the youth of Dimma and help us create a brighter future for the community. Thank you for believing in the potential of Dimma’s young people!