FORMER drug and alcohol addicts in Kilolo District, Iringa Region, have commended the Tanzania Police Force’s Gender and Children’s Desk for playing a pivotal role in their recovery and reintegration into society, urging the government to support the expansion of the initiative.

During a community outreach event led by senior police officers from the national Gender and Children Protection Unit, the reformed individuals shared personal testimonies of transformation, crediting the desk's awareness campaigns and counselling programmes for helping them overcome addiction and regain their dignity.

Emmanuel Kivembela, one of the beneficiaries, said the support from the Gender Desk changed the course of his life.

“I used to be violent and heavily involved in drug abuse, without understanding what was driving my behaviour,” he said. “But after engaging with the police and receiving education, I joined a community group that gave me direction. Today, I live a more responsible life and serve as a role model in my community.”

The outreach was part of an ongoing police initiative to combat gender-based violence and substance abuse through education, intervention, and collaboration with local communities.

Leader Lusasi, coordinator of a local chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous, called on the government to allocate land for a permanent rehabilitation and skills training centre.

“With our own centre, we could reach more addicts and help them learn vocational skills to rebuild their lives. Idle time often leads people back to addiction. We want to offer a structured alternative,” Lusasi explained.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Maria Nzuki, who heads the national Gender and Child Protection Desk, urged community members across Tanzania to utilise the desk to report incidents of abuse and violence, stressing that its services are open to all—regardless of gender.

“This desk operates nationwide and serves everyone. It’s not just for women and children—men experiencing violence are also encouraged to report. We are here to protect every citizen,” she said.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Faidha Suleiman, the national coordinator of the Gender Desk, echoed the message, saying that stigma often prevents men from speaking out, even when they are victims.

“Violence knows no gender. We urge men to break the silence and come forward. The desk offers confidential support and equal treatment for all,” she said.

The outreach in Kilolo is part of a broader national campaign to increase community awareness, reduce drug dependency, and eliminate gender-based violence through early intervention, rehabilitation, and empowerment.