| dc.description.abstract | This study examined the gendered reintegration of youth drug use ex-offenders within Kampala. Specifically, the study set out to describe the gender differences in community reintegration Programs of youth drug ex-offenders; analyze how the community reintegration programs, impact male and female youth drug use ex-offenders; and examine the weaknesses and strengths of coping mechanisms adopted by youth drug use ex-offenders during reintegration processes. Methodologically, the study used qualitative methods of data collection utilizing both in-depth interviews and focus group discussions among key informants and youth drug use ex-offenders respectively. Secondary sources were also used to gather information relevant to the study. Overall, findings indicated that there is a growing number of youth drug use ex-offenders in the community, encompassing both males and females. There were both government and CSOs programs aimed at reintegrating the youth drug use ex-offenders. Some of the programs included the Medical and Healthcare Program, Medically Assisted Therapy, Needle and Syringe Program, Buprenorphine Induction Program, Livelihood Program and Legal Aid Program. The services provided by the programs ranged from screening and treatment of youth drug ex-offenders of diseases such as HIV/AIDS, and STIs; to treatment and detoxification from opioids and other substances such as heroin, pethidine, codeine, tramadol, morphine, and methamphetamine including alcohol, among others. The programs also offered services for mental health problems through counselling and other psychosocial support. Legal Aid Program created awareness of human rights and provided legal support to drug use ex-offenders as a means of stemming abuse of their fundamental rights, providing free legal aid services, and reintegration back into their community. While the livelihood programs provided entrepreneurship skills such as tailoring, hairdressing, and making wallets and handbags. This program supported especially some female youth drug use ex-offenders with a living and to fit into their community. These programs were reported to have positive economic and social impacts on youth drug use ex-offenders, facilitating their reintegration into the community Challenges were, however, reported such as a lack of consistent adherence to the services due to a shortage of transport funds and household responsibilities, especially for female clients. There was also stigma and discrimination against ex-drug offenders from the healthcare providers and the community, causing many of the participants to choose not to disclose their drug use to the health providers. Government programs had no linkage with the government justice system that harboured substance users in prisons and jails, yet many of them needed treatment and counselling. Conclusively, although certain programs specifically targeted female youth ex-drug offenders, most of the programs were administered in gender-neutral ways. By of recommendations, the results noted the need for orientation training for service providers such as health service providers and law enforcement officers on anti- discrimination practices, health service needs and human rights of youth drug use ex-offenders. Additionally, the fact that the essential services for drug use ex-offenders are international donor- funded, there is a need for CSOs to advocate for domestic funding for services for youth drug use ex-offenders as this will support sustainability for programs for youth drug use ex-offenders. | en_US |
