The Rwanda National Police yesterday launched a countrywide campaign to fight drug trafficking and abuse in schools.

The official launch was held at Riviera High School in Gasabo District.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Damas Gatare, Police Spokesperson challenged students to be agents of change and join the campaign against use of soothing agents like cannabis and illicit gin such as kanyanga and chief waragi, commonly abused among the youth.

"This country is counting on the young generation to drive development further. It will be a dead end if the youth indulge in drug abuse which has been one of the causes of school drop-outs,” ACP Gatare noted.

"You have an obligation to stand up and say no to drugs, work hard and live to your expectations.”

Explaining that drug abuse is the major cause of other crimes like domestic and gender based violence, theft and assault; Gatare urged the youth to focus on their studies.

Boniface Onyango, the school principal commended RNP’s continued efforts and dedication to fight and prevent drug abuse among the youth.

He called upon the students to be partners in the campaign to further fight the vice by mainly sharing credible information on those involved to ensure they (suspects) are arrested.

The campaign will be conducted in about 200 secondary schools across the country.