Ministry of Health Hosts Workshop to Combat Drug and Substance Abuse
The workshop, which began yesterday, has brought together key stakeholders from six counties: Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Nyamira, Kisii, and Migori.
Ministry of Health hosts workshop to combat drug and substance abuse in Kisumu. Photo/Ministry of Health.
The Ministry of Health, through the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, has launched a three-day sensitization workshop on drug and substance abuse in Kisumu County.
The workshop, which began yesterday, has brought together key stakeholders from six counties: Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Nyamira, Kisii, and Migori.
This initiative aims to strengthen collaborative efforts in addressing the growing challenges posed by drug and substance abuse in the region.
Participants include county health officials, community leaders, civil society organizations, and law enforcement agencies, reflecting a united front in tackling this pressing issue.
The workshop is focused on four main areas: preventive measures, rehabilitation strategies, public awareness campaigns, and capacity-building for community health workers.
These areas are considered essential for creating a comprehensive and sustainable approach to reducing the impact of drug and substance abuse on individuals and communities.
Speaking at the opening session, a senior official from the Ministry of Health emphasized the importance of community-based interventions in combating drug abuse.
“The fight against drug and substance abuse requires a multisectoral approach, where every stakeholder plays an active role. This workshop is a platform to align our strategies and resources for maximum impact,” the official said.
One of the key objectives of the workshop is to equip community health workers with the skills and knowledge needed to identify and address cases of drug abuse at the grassroots level.
Participants will also discuss ways to improve access to rehabilitation services and create support systems for individuals recovering from addiction.
Public awareness campaigns were highlighted as a critical component in preventing drug abuse, particularly among the youth.
Stakeholders agreed that targeted campaigns in schools, workplaces, and community spaces could help educate the public on the dangers of drug abuse and promote healthier lifestyle choices.
The involvement of law enforcement agencies in the workshop underscores the importance of curbing the supply of illicit drugs while supporting rehabilitation efforts for users.
Collaborative frameworks are being discussed to ensure that law enforcement actions are aligned with health-focused strategies.
As the workshop progresses, stakeholders are expected to draft a joint action plan that will guide future efforts in combating drug and substance abuse across the six counties.
The Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to providing the necessary resources and policy support to ensure the success of these initiatives.
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