Kenya Launches Community-Based Rehabilitation Framework to Provide Care, Support for Addicts
- Kenya unveiled a Community-Based Rehabilitation Framework to address substance use disorders through prevention, treatment and reintegration
- The strategy, launched by NACADA and supported by the Ministry of Interior, promotes community ownership, early detection and reduced stigma around addiction
- Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo stressed a national crisis, linking drug abuse to crime and extremism, and called for compassionate, collective action across all communities
- NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa urged nationwide collaboration, emphasising the role of grassroots leaders and health workers in connecting victims of addiction
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Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.
Nairobi - In a bold and transformative step aimed at confronting the nation’s deepening crisis of alcohol and drug abuse, the Kenyan government, through the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), has launched a Community-Based Rehabilitation Framework for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs).
Source: UGC
The launch, held at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), brought together policymakers, healthcare professionals, civil society leaders, and community stakeholders.
The new framework signals a decisive shift from punitive strategies to a compassionate, community-led approach to addiction recovery and reintegration.
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Presiding over the launch, Principal Secretary for Internal Security Raymond Omollo underscored the gravity of the situation and the urgency for a national response rooted in care, not punishment.
"Drug and alcohol abuse are fueling crime, domestic violence, extremism, and lost potential among our youth. We cannot police our way out of this crisis, we must address its root causes through prevention, treatment, and reintegration," he declared.
What is Kenya’s new strategy for tackling substance abuse
The newly unveiled framework was developed by NACADA in close collaboration with government agencies, healthcare providers, and civil society groups.
It places strong emphasis on prevention, accessible and affordable treatment, justice reform, and community ownership.
By engaging local leaders and tapping into the strengths of grassroots organisations, the initiative aims to build resilience and solutions from the ground up.
NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa described the strategy as one based on research, compassion, and partnership.
"This is a call to action for all stakeholders, from health workers to village elders, to unite in saving our communities," he said.
What is NACADA’s vision for this initiative?
He highlighted the need for early detection of substance use disorders, reduction of stigma around addiction, and the establishment of strong referral systems that can connect those struggling with addiction to the help they need.
Source: Twitter
In closing, Omollo made a powerful appeal to ensure the framework reaches every corner of the country, stressing the shared responsibility in reversing the tide of addiction.
"From Kilifi to Nairobi, every community must benefit from this framework. Together, we can reclaim our youth, restore security, and rebuild lives," the PS added.
As the country grapples with the multifaceted consequences of addiction, from broken homes to overcrowded prisons and vulnerability to extremist ideologies, Kenya’s new rehabilitation framework offers a beacon of hope.
It is a call not just to treat, but to transform, offering those struggling with addiction a second chance through the collective will of their communities.
NACADA pushes for women-only rehabs
Earlier, NACADA called for more support for women struggling with drug addiction by urging the creation of gender-sensitive rehabilitation centres and policies.
The agency says women face unique challenges, such as stigma, childcare responsibilities, and gender-based violence, which often stop them from seeking help.
NACADA said rehab centres should offer services that consider these issues, including childcare support and trauma care.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
