Project Overview
The project, which is run in conjunction with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), was set up in response to public demand and tackles an issue of concern to both the local government and the UN; the abuse of opium. In an attempt to treat people’s dependency and to prevent more people from becoming addicted, IR has opened a Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre health centre in Shortepa District, north Balkh that provides counselling, detoxification services and medical care.

Problem / Project Background
Afghanistan is the world’s largest producer of opium and heroin and as most people have no access to healthcare, many have turned to opium as a means to control pain. A widespread culture of dependency has been established which has serious social, economic and health effects, not just for those who are addicted, but also for their families and communities.

One of the provinces most severely affected is Balkh in northern Afghanistan. Here opium is often traded like tea and is largely considered to be a medicine rather than a dangerous drug.

Many of the people who are dependent on opium in Balkh are women who use it to dull the pain caused by working for many hours on heavy weaving looms. However, the dependency is affecting their health, livelihoods and ability to care for their children.

Project Objectives

• To offer support and treatment to opium addicts in the area
• To prevent more people becoming addicts by educating and raising awareness

Project Activities

• Providing counselling, detoxification advice and regular follow ups to check patient’s progress.
• Carrying out education and awareness-raising sessions about the harmful effects of drug use for the local communities.
• Providing residential care and home visits to addicts

Beneficiaries
The centre benefits drug addicts and their children and aims to help around 6000 people per year.