Holding a Light for Addiction Recovery in Rural Tanzania
In 2023, Global Volunteers responded to the critical alcohol abuse problem in the Ukwega Ward by introducing the international addiction recovery program Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) through village meetings. AA was selected because its proven “12-Step” program is familiar to a wide range of volunteers, is accepted in Tanzania, and is founded on non-clinical interventions; extending its accessibility to rural villages. Volunteers in recovery, and family members of AA members, are invaluable resources for fledgling groups. Regina Mhagama, Mental Wellness Education Manager and Senior RCP Caregiver, provides details:
by Regina Mhagama, RCP Senior Caregiver and Mental Wellness Education Manager
When we started talking with parents in Global Volunteers’ Reaching Children’s Potential Program (RCP) about alcohol abuse in 2021, we explained the connection between mental health and addiction. Through parent workshops, we slowly raised the awareness of alcohol abuse in teens and adults throughout the Ukwega Ward. Volunteers in recovery generously shared their own stories of addiction and recovery, and encouraged villagers to establish their own AA groups to support each other’s journey to sobriety.
A formal needs assessment confirmed the number of community members who suffer from addiction. At that time, we consulted with the Iringa Sober House to ask for guidance. They were happy to assist us, and in 2022, we presented village meetings to discuss alcohol abuse and treatment for addiction. From those meetings, many people expressed interest in forming village-based AA groups. We continued to bring Tanzanian and volunteer speakers to village meetings where people in recovery expressed their gratitude for sobriety. Early in 2024, I invited five interested villagers to accompany me to a meeting in Iringa with residents at the sober house, where we listened to inspiring personal stories and were motivated to form local AA groups. Through volunteers’ donations, we purchased AA materials in Swahili and offered them to each of the village groups.
All along, our short-term volunteers have educated and supported newly sober RCP parents and village members. When they meet together in home visits and workshops, volunteers offer guidance, companionship, and hope. They also educate communities about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. When they reflect on their personal journey of recovery, they reinforce their commitment to sobriety, and encourage others to likewise share their own stories. By helping others, volunteers and those they serve contribute to the overall health and well-being of their communities.
Up to now, we have 45 members who are attending AA meetings each week in their village, and some of them their progress is much better. Through associations with the Tanzania AA Service Center, and AA programs in Iringa and Ilula (larger nearby towns), I’ve learned how to advocate for recovery and assist villagers in their group leadership. During this time, I have learned very much about alcoholism and recovery, and I admire those who have overcome their addiction. I’m proud to offer assistance to everyone who is looking for a solution.
At the same time, our community leaders are very grateful for our response. We continue to enlarge our circle of support with collaborators in the Ward, District and Iringa Region. I recently arranged for more village women to attend an AA meeting in Lulindi, so they could see first-hand the structure of the meeting and how to use the donated AA materials. It was a wonderful session. At that time, I met Denis, who has many years of sobriety and sponsors new AA members. He told me sponsors are pivotal in a new AA member’s recovery. I had some time to interview him, and share with you his story:
Denis’ Story of Recovery and Sobriety
“My family is me and my son. His mother is dead, and I am a football coach. I am sober and involved in programs that educate students about the effects of drug and alcohol use. I also help those who want to stop using by guiding them to resources like affordable housing and AA and NA programs.
My road to recovery was difficult. I started using drugs in football stadiums, influenced by friends. Addiction became a prison, and stopping was a challenge. Society often promotes addiction through cultural traditions that legalize alcohol, increasing addiction rates and relapses.
AA showed me a solution through their 12-Step program. It gave me hope and a path to a sober life. Volunteering in recovery has been essential for my growth and helping others. Despite cultural obstacles, education and support groups can provide hope and guidance.
Addicts need detoxification, education, hope, and non-judgmental support to stay clean. Improvements are needed in villages to establish AA and NA meetings, provide education, and support groups. The government and churches should promote positive images and solve societal challenges.
My goal is to continue living a sober life, open an office to welcome recovering addicts, and develop an academy for children to nurture their talents and help others.”
Join us to Sustain the Momentum Toward Sobriety
Denis’s journey demonstrates the profound impact of volunteering in Tanzania to help advance recovery from alcoholism. His commitment to education, support, and community involvement shows how one person’s efforts can spark change and inspire others to join the cause. By sharing testimonies like Denis’, we can motivate more people to volunteer and support the goal of recovery, using AA as a model. In this way, we’ll ultimately create stronger, healthier communities to support and advance the overall RCP goal of all children reaching their full potential.
We need you now, and always. Service programs start every week throughout the year. Please plan to join us today!
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