The Kenyan government, in collaboration with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), today unveiled the Community-Based Rehabilitation Framework for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD).
The launch marks a major shift from punitive enforcement to a holistic, community-driven approach in addressing addiction and its far-reaching consequences.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Raymond Omollo, PhD, CBS, Principal Secretary for Internal Security, described substance abuse as a growing threat to the nation’s stability.
“Drug and alcohol abuse are fueling crime, domestic violence, extremism, and lost potential among our youth,” said Dr. Omollo.
“We cannot police our way out of this crisis we must address its root causes through prevention, treatment, and reintegration.”
Dr. Omollo outlined a series of troubling trends linking substance abuse to national insecurity.
“Addicts are resorting to theft and violence to sustain their habits. Families are breaking down, especially in rural areas, due to the spread of illicit alcohol.
Extremist groups are exploiting vulnerable, drug-dependent youth. Our prisons are overcrowded with minor offenders who, without rehabilitation, become hardened criminals,” he noted.
He further stressed that the fight against addiction must go beyond law enforcement.
“This is not just a health issue it is a national security threat,” Dr. Omollo declared.
The new framework, developed by NACADA in partnership with government agencies, civil society organizations, and healthcare professionals, emphasizes four key pillars: prevention through school-based and public awareness programs; expansion of accessible, culturally sensitive treatment centers; justice reforms that divert non-violent offenders into rehabilitation instead of jail; and community empowerment through local leadership and grassroots engagement.
Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, MBS, CEO of NACADA, underscored the framework’s foundation on research and evidence-based practices.
“This framework includes early detection of substance use disorders, reduction of stigma, and strengthening of referral systems to ensure that help is timely and effective,” said Dr. Omerikwa.
He called on all sectors of society to get involved in the implementation.
“This is a call to action for all stakeholders from health workers to village elders to unite in saving our communities,” he emphasized.
The launch concluded with a rallying appeal for a coordinated national rollout.
Dr. Omollo urged communities across Kenya to take ownership of the initiative and drive its success at the grassroots level.
“From Kilifi to Nairobi, every community must benefit from this framework,” he said. “Together, we can reclaim our youth, restore security, and rebuild lives.”
The Community-Based Rehabilitation Framework is expected to play a crucial role in transforming how Kenya addresses substance abuse, by fostering a more compassionate, effective, and community-led response to addiction.
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