200 religious leaders in Kwale Unite against Drug Menace
Religious leaders in Kwale County partner to end Drug and alcohol Abuse/Photo caroline Kahonzi
By Caroline Kahonzi
Over 2000 religious leaders drawn from Kwale county are partnering with a Denmark organization through the free Pentecostal fellowship church in Kenya ,Under a Faith Community Against Drug Abuse project (FACADA ) aimed at eradicating drug use among the youth .
The first phase of the project will involve 200 religious leaders in Msambweni and Lungalunga sub -counties before its implementation in Matuga and other sub -counties.
Speaking during the signing of the declaration by the religious leaders at the free Pentecostal fellowship church of Kenya in Ukunda, Kahaso Pendo Emmanuel the project officer noted that the religious leaders are an important tool in disseminating important information to the society.
“Our research shows that religious leaders are the most trusted people in the community, they have a great influence that may change the society,”Said Emmanuel.
Emmanuel says religious leaders should be sensitized on the best approaches of ending this vice and ensure youth are drug free.
“According to our recent survey 83 percent of religious leaders don’t preach on proper ways of curbing drug use in their sermons, they should prioritize this in their agenda so as to have a society that is safe, “added Mr.Emmanuel .
On his side KEMNAC secretary Kwale County ,Sheik Amani Hamisi termed youth ignorance to religious teachings as the genesis of the drug menace in society.
“We are here to support this initiative so as to be in the forefront of guiding our youth and the community at large, it is vivid that a big number of youth have shun away from religion, most of them spend time on “maskanis” while others join illegal groups that terrorize people even in churches and mosques, so we have decided to come out and support this project and rise our voice to the community,”Emphasized Sheikh Hamisi.
His sentiments were echoed by Bishop David Kiragu Gitau of FPFK church
“I want to thank my fellow religious leaders for their support. Many communities are affected by this menace, it’s time to walk together and find a safe environment for our youth, this journey needs a multi-sectoral approach to succeed, ” Said Bishop Kiragu.
Kwale County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi says measures are in place to bring to book the drug barons.
“We can all confirm that drug use is very high in this area, that is why the security department has set measures to deal with those who are engaged in these illegal businesses but I urge all religious leaders who are here to work with undeterred resolve to make our society clean ,”Urged the Commissioner.
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