Koudougou: Charly the Wise raises awareness among prisoners about the dangers of drugs and banditry

The Koudougou Detention and Correction Center hosted on Monday an awareness session on the harmful effects of narcotics and banditry, initiated by Charles Amede Rouamba, better known as Charly the Wise.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this activity is part of a national tour that will cover eleven penitentiary establishments in Burkina Faso, following a launch on April 9 at the Ouagadougou Detention and Correction Center (MACO).

Addressing the inmates, Charly the Wise shared his personal experiences, marked by several stays in prison. Through his testimony, he aimed to give hope to the prisoners and urge them to change their behavior. "Prison is not an end in itself. It's a place of passage. At the end of the tunnel, there is always light," he affirmed, encouraging the inmates to believe in their capacity for rehabilitation.

He also emphasized the dangers associated with the consumption of narcotics and adulterated alcohol, which he considers a major cause of crime. According to him, many reprehensible acts are committed under the influence of these substances, often without the perpetrators being fully aware of it.

The director of the Koudougou prison, Casimir Nikiema, welcomed the initiative, which he considers beneficial for the inmates. "We really needed this type of awareness-raising. The testimonies and advice shared can contribute to a change in behavior among the prisoners," he stated.

He said he was convinced of the positive impact of this activity on reducing drug use, particularly among young people, while calling on them to make responsible choices.

The sponsor of the event, Ali Bonkoungou, CEO of Salsabil BStiment, emphasized the value of the message conveyed. "The most important thing is not just the material aid, but the message. Charly speaks from his own experience, and this directly resonates with the inmates," he stressed.

He also addressed parents about their role in their children's education, arguing that a decline in parental supervision contributes to juvenile delinquency. "We need to know who our children associate with and what they are doing. This is essential to safeguarding their future," he insisted.

Mr. Bonkoungou also highlighted the importance of youth in the development of the country, calling for their protection and guidance.

Through this initiative, the organizers intend not only to contribute to the social reintegration of prisoners, but also to prevent the entry of new young people into penitentiary establishments.

Following the discussions, a community meal was offered to the prisoners, in a spirit of sharing and solidarity.