Self Help Recovery Groups

Looking back on the first half of 2021, we see how much the Self Help groups in Uganda have developed and flourished. Today, there are two different Self Help Groups which meet every week in Butiki-Mataala and in Kyekiide. The Self Help Groups have enabled their members to build up their self-confidence and increase their self-esteem. This progress is shown by the way in which members learned to talk openly and now boldly share their stories during the group sessions.  After participating in the Self Help groups for over 6 months, the participants were interviewed about their experience. They all confirmed that their confidence has grown and that they have acquired new skills. One of the participants in Butiiki-Mataala said that each member of the group feels responsible for one and another. “We will move together in good or bad times”. If one person can’t cope with their addiction, they are carried by the others. In that way, the rhythm of collective movement remains unbroken.

Since the well-being of individuals is also dependent on it’s society, it is important that the Blue Cross raises community awareness. Especially in Uganda, where people often have negative attitudes towards people suffering from drug and alcohol addictions, community awareness is more important than ever. Within the last six months, Blue Cross Uganda has distributed nearly 900 leaflets containing information about the effects of substance abuse and the importance of Self Help groups.

We are convinced that the community plays a really important role in helping people who struggle with addictions and will therefore raise community activities. If you want to support us in doing so, you are welcomed to donate to our project. Thank you so much for helping change the world for better!