MCAs raise alarm over rising cases of drug abuse among youths
Erick Ludeya
Nairobi MCAs through a motion have cautioned against the rising number of youths indulging in drug and substance abuse.
Consequently, they have called on the Nairobi Metropolitan Services and the County Government to liaise with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) to establish rehabilitation programs for such youths.
Riruta MCA James Kiriba who moved the motion said the prevailing hard economic times have made the situation worse
The MCAs are also blaming the rise on many factors including dysfunctional families, peer influence, uncontrolled alcohol trading environment, unemployment and depression.
“This must be treated as a matter of urgency by all relevant stakeholders because our young people are getting involved at a very alarming rate,” Kiriba said.
To curb the rise,they have further proposed establishment of an affordable rehabilitation and resource centre that is equipped with enough personnel.
To make it sustainable,they are proposing that the project be captured in the county’s budget estimates.
A 2017 survey by NACADA ranked narcotic drug Bhang and alcohol as the most abused especially in urban centres with Nairobi and Mombasa leading.
Recent reports have also revealed that Kenya is becoming a major destination of heroin with addiction rising in slum areas.
Corruption and lack of oversight on security agencies has also seen the supply of these drugs and substances increase steadily.
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