Aasai

The Ministry of Health has sounded the alarm over increasing drug and substance abuse among young Kenyans aged 15 to 24. A recent government report reveals that one in every eleven youths is currently using drugs, raising national concern over the growing trend.

A survey conducted between November 2024 and February 2025 by the Ministry identified ten counties as high-risk zones for youth drug abuse. These counties include Garissa, Kakamega, Kericho, Kisumu, Laikipia, Machakos, Meru, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Uasin Gishu. Public Health PS Mary Muthoni noted that substances such as alcohol, miraa, tobacco, cannabis, and even prescription drugs are most commonly misused.

 The issue isn’t limited to teens alone. An estimated 1.5 million Kenyans aged between 25 and 35 are also affected, raising fears that drug use is threatening productivity within the country’s workforce. PS Muthoni emphasized the urgency of addressing the situation to prevent it from becoming a national crisis.

 In response, the Ministry plans to launch a national anti-drug campaign, beginning with the ten high-risk counties. The initiative will focus on educating youth about the dangers of drug abuse and promoting rehabilitation programs. Students on long holidays from institutions of higher learning have been urged to stay drug-free and use their time productively.