The Ministry of Health has raised concerns over the growing abuse of drugs and substances amongst the youth as a recent report indicates 1 in every 11 young people, aged between 15 and 24 are using a substance.
Consequently, a survey done by MOH between November 2024 and February 2025, has put 10 counties at a higher risk for the youth and their indulgence in drugs and substances, sometimes prescription medication.
The counties are; Garissa, Kakamega, Kericho, Kisumu, Laikipia, Machakos, Meru, Mombasa, Nakuru and Uasin Gishu.
According to Public Health and Professional Standards PS Mary Muthoni, there is a growing interest in indulgence in drug and substance, a trend that needs to be stopped.
The statistics show, alcohol, miraa, tobacco, cannabis and prescription drugs, in that order, are the highly abused amongst the youth.
The young working class, aged between 25 and 35 – about 1.5 million Kenyans – are affected and there are fears these numbers could go up.
This concern is fuelled by the fact that they are in their productive ages but the indulgence in drugs is gravely affecting their production at work.
PS Mary Muthoni says something needs to be done urgently.
Soon, the Ministry is set to roll out a nationwide campaign, starting in the 10 counties at a higher risk. The Ministry will be sensitizing the youth on the dangers while also encouraging rehabilitation to curb the menace that if unchecked, would spiral into a national disaster.
There is also caution to youth in institutions of higher learning, especially now that some are on a long holiday, to refrain from drug abuse and remain productive.
