Status: Completed

Period of implementation: 2004 -2006

Donor: European Union – European Development Fund

Direct Beneficiary: National Drug Information Centre, Ministry of Social Transformation, Crossroads Centre

Implementing Agency: Ministry of Social Transformation, Ministry of Education, ONAO

Donor Contribution: 350,000 EUR

Background: 

The Multi-Country Drug Demand Reduction Project (DDRP) was implemented in four countries across the Windward Islands, namely, Grenada, Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. In Antigua and Barbuda, the project received the largest allocation and was primarily focused on the addressing the prevalence of drugs emanating from transshipment activities. 

Objective: 

The overall objective of the project was to reduce demand for illicit drugs and reduce substance abuse in Antigua and Barbuda. 

Project description:

The project sought to address deficiencies in the anti-drug infrastructure by creating broad public awareness about issues related to the use of illicit drugs. Institutional development and training, education campaigns and community activities targeted prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation which were all critically identified as necessary areas for support in the 2001 National Drug Use Prevalence Survey. 

Methods of creating awareness included use of billboards, jingles, a newsletter called “Drug Focus”, publication of booklets on crime prevention and orgainzed community social gatherings.

The National Drug Information Centre (NDIC) received much needed strengthening in physical, human, and material capacity, while staff of the Ministry of Social Transformation participated in a 4 month training course on the principles and practice of social work. 

In the education setting, primary schools showed increased interest in programs that were introduced to higher grades, and important projects. Additionally, ‘Project Hope’ was set up through support provided by the project, and involved peer counselor training, anti-drug education and skills training in arts and craft to help boost employment opportunities for troubled youth. 

Assistance was given to the Crossroads Centre, a non-residential rehabilitation facility, to implement the “Breaking The Cycle” project which brought positive messages to target groups and children in particular. 

The project respected local customs and practices by developing and utilizing culturally relevant mechanisms to meet the needs to target groups. Beneficiaries were actively involved in various aspects of project design and development and allowed for wider buy-in and interest in the project’s success.