The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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By: Abigail Kajuju Bariu
In today’s society, drug and substance abuse has become one of the biggest threats facing Kenya’s young generation. What may begin as a simple experiment — a “small try” — often turns into a lifelong battle with addiction.
Behind every addict lies a story of peer pressure, pain, broken families, or poor choices, but these stories can still be rewritten with the right support.
According to the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), at least 13% of Kenyan youth aged between 15 and 24 have experimented with drugs or alcohol.
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Alcohol remains the most abused substance, followed by bhang (cannabis), khat (miraa), and prescription drugs. Worryingly, NACADA’s 2023 report shows that over 3.3 million Kenyans are active drug users, and one in five students admits to having tried an illegal substance before turning 18.
Many young people are introduced to drugs through peer influence, social media trends, stress, or the desire to escape harsh economic and emotional realities. What begins as a thrill soon leads to broken dreams — academic failure, strained family relationships, health deterioration, and sometimes even death. The same substances that promise fun and confidence eventually destroy futures.
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Yet, hope still exists. Choosing to live a drug-free life is a mark of strength, not weakness. True courage is found in saying “no” even when the crowd says “yes.” Parents, teachers, mentors, and religious leaders must take an active role in guiding young people before addiction takes hold.
A drug-free life is a free life — one filled with purpose, peace, and possibility. Kenya’s youth deserve that chance.
Abigail Kajuju Bariu is a Journalism Student at Mount Kenya University (MKU)
