NACADA launches substance prevention week with renewed focus on youth protection

Speaking during the official opening of the National Substance Use Prevention Week Summit at the Kenya School of Government on Thursday, Dr Mairori emphasised that prevention must remain a national priority anchored in families, faith institutions, schools and workplaces.

He noted that while substance abuse remains a concern, a significant proportion of Kenyans have chosen to live drug-free lives, citing NACADA data showing that 42.5 per cent of the population are lifetime abstainers.

“That is not just a statistic; it is a testament to resilience shaped by family, faith, personal conviction and community values,” he said. “This is the norm we celebrate and the foundation we are determined to reinforce.”

However, the Chairperson raised concern over substance use among young people, revealing that 17.5 per cent of adults and 26.6 per cent of university students have used substances, signalling an urgent need for targeted interventions within learning institutions.

“Kenya is a young nation, and our most precious demographic is at risk. The availability of drugs, especially near our learning institutions, is a crisis we must confront with unity and urgency,” he said.

Dr Mairori outlined a two-pronged approach focusing on amplifying prevention initiatives that already work at the grassroots level, while strengthening partnerships between government, communities and other stakeholders to bridge the gap between policy and action.

He said NACADA is engaging religious leaders across denominations and counties to leverage their influence in shaping values and guiding young people, while also implementing targeted policies in schools, workplaces and neighbourhoods.

“Our strategy balances supply reduction with demand reduction, because a safer future requires both dismantling access and strengthening resolve,” he added.

The Chairperson also recognised individuals in recovery, describing them as living proof that change is possible and urging them to share their experiences to inspire others battling addiction.

This year’s Prevention Week is themed “Empowered Communities, Brighter Futures,” highlighting the role of collective responsibility in addressing substance use and building healthier societies.

Dr Mairori underscored that prevention should not be viewed as optional, but as a long-term investment in the country’s social and economic wellbeing.

“With these efforts, we are securing brighter, healthier futures for generations to come,” he said as he officially declared the summit open.