By Djinodji SOLMENGAR Rodrigue
CEDIRAA Project Assistant Arnold Mbaindolemel says tobacco, alcohol, and tramadol use are increasing among young people and calls for stronger prevention, education, and rehabilitation efforts.
N’Djamena – ‘They think that they are in control, but addiction will control them, definitely.‘ With this warning, Arnold Mbaindolemel, Project Assistant at the Diocesan Center for Research and Action on Alcoholism and Other Addictions (CEDIRAA), raised concerns about the growing use of tobacco, alcohol, and tramadol among young people in Chad.
Speaking to MRTV English, Mbaindolemel discussed the challenges posed by addiction, the factors driving substance use, and the role families, schools, and authorities must play in addressing the issue.
Founded 27 years ago, CEDIRAA has been working to combat addiction through research, prevention, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation.
‘For 27 years, we have been fighting against addiction through research, prevention and sensitisation,‘ Mbaindolemel said.
The center serves both adults and young people, although most of those seeking assistance are youth. According to Mbaindolemel, the situation has become increasingly concerning.
‘We realize that the situation is rising. Alcohol, tobacco and tramadol use is on the rise in our society,‘ he said.
Easy Access Fuels Substance Use
Mbaindolemel identified easy access to addictive substances as one of the main reasons behind their growing consumption. He also cited poverty, unemployment, family problems, and stress as contributing factors.
‘The primary cause of this phenomenon is the easy access of these substances,‘ he explained.
He noted that local alcoholic beverages and cigarettes can be purchased for around 100 FCFA, making them affordable and readily available to many young people.
Rehabilitation and Support
CEDIRAA’s response to addiction combines awareness, counseling, and treatment.
‘We communicate with people who drink, smoke, and even those who don’t drink and smoke,‘ Mbaindolemel said. ‘In addition, we provide psychological support. After psychological support, we administer medication treatment.‘
The center welcomes individuals from across Chad, including from cities such as Sarh and Abéché, seeking help to overcome addiction.
Parents, Schools, and Authorities Must Act
Mbaindolemel emphasized that preventing addiction is a shared responsibility.
‘The first group with the greatest responsibility is parents,‘ he said, adding that many parents struggle to communicate openly with their children about sensitive issues.
‘Parents don’t talk openly with their children, and that is a major issue,‘ he said.
He also called on schools to educate students about the risks associated with substance use and urged authorities to strengthen support for rehabilitation services.
‘Authorities have to support centers like CEDIRAA to rehabilitate people,‘ he said.
Mbaindolemel further stressed the need for stronger enforcement of existing laws.
‘We have good laws, but they don’t enforce them,‘ he stated.
A Warning to Young People
Addressing young people who have recently started smoking or drinking alcohol, Mbaindolemel cautioned against the belief that they can stop at any time.
‘They think that they are in control, but addiction will control them, definitely,’ he warned.
He also highlighted the dangers of smoking in public places, noting that second-hand smoke affects those around smokers.
‘We need to protect pregnant women and children,‘ he said.
For those already struggling with addiction, he encouraged them to seek help.
‘Let them call us. CEDIRAA is ready to help them overcome their addiction,‘ he said.
Building a Healthier Future
Mbaindolemel pointed to several health risks associated with tobacco and alcohol use, including fertility problems, skin disorders, and cancer.
‘It’s very dangerous, and most people are unaware of these risks,‘ he said.
Looking ahead, he expressed hope for a future where young people can grow up free from addiction.
‘Our vision is to see young people grow up healthy and free from addiction,‘ Mbaindolemel said. ‘We need more education in schools, more centers like CEDIRAA, and we need support from the authorities.‘
As Chad continues to grapple with the challenges of substance use, CEDIRAA believes that prevention, education, and access to rehabilitation services remain essential to protecting young people and promoting healthier communities across the country.
