Nairobi: In a joint effort to combat the rising cases of alcohol and drug abuse among youths, Kimajani Green Afrique, in partnership with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and school principals, have launched a sensitization campaign aimed at reversing the vice among university and college students. The initiative incorporates environmental conservation through tree planting as a productive alternative to substance abuse.
According to Kenya News Agency, Robert Olweny, the NACADA North Rift Regional Representative, expressed concern over the alarming statistics of drug abuse among university students. "According to our research, over 45% of university students have interacted with drugs, while 26.6% are active users. This has negatively impacted their academic performance, mental health, and productivity," Olweny revealed.
Olweny further disclosed that the research findings indicated that students accessed drugs from various sources including some rogue university staff, fellow students, and nearby bars and liquor outlets. "This is a worrying trend. As NACADA, we are committed to building a sober nation. We have already trained staff in TVET institutions on how to handle student welfare and manage cases of drug abuse," he added.
He noted that NACADA will soon begin disseminating the research findings across the country while engaging various stakeholders to develop comprehensive programs and policies aimed at curbing drug abuse at the community level and supporting university administrations in addressing the vice.
Olweny lauded the Kimajani Green Afrique initiative, stating that engaging youths in climate change activities like tree planting is an effective way to reduce cases of drug abuse. "As NACADA, we fully support the Kimajani Green Afrique tree planting initiative. When youths take part in environmental conservation, they are less likely to engage in drug abuse. It gives them a sense of responsibility and purpose," he emphasized.
Kimajani Green Afrique CEO Nathan Kipkoech noted that the initiative was designed to empower students by educating them on the importance of environmental conservation while also addressing the issue of substance abuse. "We have brought together students from different schools to learn about climate change activities such as tree planting. Our aim is to provide them with positive engagements that not only conserve the environment but also steer them away from drugs and alcohol," Kipkoech said.
Mark Kilimo, the Centre Manager of Iten Vocational Training Centre, appreciated the gesture by Kimajani Green Afrique, saying the institution had already harvested timber for domestic use and was now focused on reforestation to conserve the environment. "We are grateful for this partnership. These trees will help us restore the forest cover while also teaching our students the importance of environmental conservation and staying away from drugs," Kilimo remarked.
The event saw hundreds of students from various institutions plant trees as a symbol of commitment to both environmental conservation and the fight against drug and alcohol abuse. Organizers hope to replicate similar programs in other counties as they seek to create a sober, productive, and environmentally conscious youth population.