The Ministry of Health has initiated a three-day sensitization campaign in Garissa County to combat drug and substance abuse, focusing on emerging nicotine and tobacco products. This initiative unites both governmental and non-governmental organizations to discuss control measures and policies.

Cabinet Secretary for Health, Deborah Barasa, emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) to cover the costs of rehabilitating drug addicts who cannot afford treatment. She noted that the expansion would include outpatient coverage for the treatment, cessation, and rehabilitation of drug and substance abuse, aiming to eliminate financial barriers and ensure those in need can access necessary care.

The campaign also addresses the rising use of novel nicotine and tobacco products among the youth, such as smokeless tobacco, nicotine pouches, and e-cigarettes. An assessment by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) highlighted these emerging trends, noting that smokeless tobacco products like snuff, tamboo, and ndovu are becoming increasingly popular among young people.

In response, the Ministry of Health is collaborating with various stakeholders to implement control measures and policies aimed at curbing the use of these products. The ongoing sensitization campaign in Garissa County is a significant step in this direction, bringing together key actors to discuss and develop strategies to address the growing challenge of drug and substance abuse.

This initiative aligns with the NACADA Strategic Plan 2023-2027, which seeks to strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug use such as opium and heroin.

Through these concerted efforts, the Ministry of Health aims to reduce the prevalence of drug and substance abuse in Kenya, particularly among the youth, and to provide support for those seeking rehabilitation.