The Ministry of Health has sounded the alarm over an escalating drug abuse crisis among Kenya’s youth, warning that urgent intervention is needed to stem the tide. A recent government report has revealed that one in every eleven young people aged between 15 and 24 is currently using some form of substance, including illicit drugs and prescription medication.
The findings, drawn from a comprehensive survey conducted between November 2024 and February 2025, paint a troubling picture of increasing drug dependency among young people. The report identifies ten counties Garissa, Kakamega, Kericho, Kisumu, Laikipia, Machakos, Meru, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Uasin Gishu as high-risk zones where youth are particularly vulnerable to drug and substance abuse.
Speaking on the matter, Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni expressed deep concern over the growing trend. “The number of young people engaging in drug use is steadily rising. This is not just a public health issue but a national crisis that affects our future workforce, families, and overall development,” she said.
The Ministry of Health has committed to launching a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at educating the public on the dangers of drug abuse. This initiative will involve partnerships with schools, community organizations, religious institutions, and the media to ensure the message reaches all corners of the country.
Experts attribute the increase in substance abuse to several factors, including peer pressure, unemployment, mental health challenges, and the easy accessibility of prescription drugs. Urban centers, in particular, have seen a spike in misuse of painkillers, sedatives, and other pharmaceutical drugs.
The Ministry is also calling on parents, educators, and community leaders to play a more proactive role in addressing the issue. Early intervention, counseling, and rehabilitation services will be crucial in preventing the situation from worsening.
As Kenya confronts this growing challenge, the Health Ministry’s campaign is seen as a vital step towards protecting the country’s youth and securing a healthier, drug-free future generation.
