Challenges Affecting the Reintegration and Economic Sustainability of Youth Graduating from Rehabilitation Centers case study Gisozi Sector, Kigali
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Youth rehabilitation has become an important strategy for promoting social reintegration and economic transformation among vulnerable youth in Rwanda. Despite government efforts through rehabilitation centers such as Iwawa, Gitagata and Nyamagabe, many rehabilitated youth continue to face difficulties after returning to their communities.
This study examined the challenges affecting the reintegration and economic sustainability of youth graduating from rehabilitation centers, focusing on Gisozi Sector in Kigali. The study adopted a desk review research design using qualitative approaches. Data were collected from secondary sources including journal articles, government reports, policy documents and institutional publications published between 2010 and 2026. The study was guided by the Social Reintegration Theory and Human Capital Theory.
Findings revealed that stigma, unemployment, limited access to startup capital, mismatch between vocational training and labor market demands, and weak institutional follow-up continue to affect rehabilitated youth after discharge. The study also found that family and community support play an important role in successful reintegration. The study concludes that rehabilitation programs should go beyond vocational training and strengthen long-term community-based support systems to improve economic sustainability and social reintegration among youth in Rwanda.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Doreen Kagire, Mark D. Walugembe, Jonah Mukiibi, Anicet Karemera, Job Matovu
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