Ministry of Health Launches Nationwide Anti-Drug Campaign
The Ministry is also focusing on mental health support, recognizing that substance abuse often stems from underlying psychological issues.
The Ministry of Health has initiated a nationwide campaign to combat the escalating crisis of drug and substance abuse in Kenya. Photo/Ministry of Health.
The Ministry of Health has initiated a nationwide campaign to combat the escalating crisis of drug and substance abuse in Kenya.
The initiative, which targets regions with the highest prevalence, spans all 47 counties grouped into 10 clusters.
It aims to equip communities with knowledge and resources to prevent addiction and support recovery efforts.
During a stakeholder meeting in Mombasa, which brought together representatives from six coastal counties, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, highlighted the urgency of a collective approach in tackling the issue.
“The fight against drug and substance abuse is a national priority. We must empower communities, strengthen enforcement, and provide robust support systems to break the cycle of addiction,” Muthoni stated.
The campaign is a response to concerning statistics, which indicate that 4.7 million Kenyans are affected by substance use, with significant dependency on alcohol and tobacco. These figures have raised alarms over the growing health and social impacts of addiction.
To address these concerns, the Ministry of Health has outlined several key strategies, including awareness campaigns, capacity-building programs, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
By educating communities and enhancing preventive measures, the initiative seeks to curb drug abuse before it takes root.
Additionally, the campaign emphasizes the importance of strong enforcement mechanisms to reduce the availability of illicit substances.
Government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local leaders will work together to dismantle drug networks and ensure effective rehabilitation programs for affected individuals.
The Ministry is also focusing on mental health support, recognizing that substance abuse often stems from underlying psychological issues.
By integrating mental health services into the broader healthcare system, authorities hope to provide more comprehensive care for individuals struggling with addiction.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a healthier, drug-free society. By prioritizing education, enforcement, and rehabilitation, Kenya takes a crucial step in addressing one of its most pressing public health challenges.
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