Displaced people housed in welfare centres tend to be trapped into a habit of consuming drugs, alcohol that drives them also towards engaging in illegal activities, thus creating an impact on their areas of return. In this context it is a clear indication that the actively contributing factor in poverty, clearly points to alcohol, drugs and tobacco consumption.
Strategies to reduce alcohol reduced problems are likely to work, if they are developed at grass root level. The ‘Mahinda Chithana’ programme launched by the government of Sri Lanka, envisages in building a disciplined society through complete eradication of alcohol, drugs and tobacco by 2015 along with the effective implementation of the NATA Act.
Targeting government officials, Samurdhi Officers specifically, FORUT conducted a training programme on Alcohol, Drugs & Development at the RDF hall, Vavuniya on 31st October and 01st November 2009.
Samurdhi Authority’s Director-M&E stressed on the major role, the Samurdhi Officers have to play in the reduction process and create the desired change among rural poor communities. The training provided the participants with the right understanding of approaches and techniques to use in the prevention process.
FORUT’s Deputy Director – Crisis Response & Recovery briefed the participants on the status that existed in the Scandinavian region and how it was overcome almost a 100 years ago. He also stressed on the need to disconnect the link between poverty and alcohol use. |
