NACADA pushes for drug-free schools through new policy
By Faith Lagat, August 22, 2025The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has unveiled a new policy targeting alcohol and drug abuse in schools, as part of its mission to safeguard Kenya’s youth.
The initiative, launched on Friday, August 22, 2025, seeks to transform learning institutions into safe spaces, emphasising prevention over punishment.
In a statement, the agency underscored the role of schools in shaping young lives, noting that the most important lessons often go beyond textbooks.
“True learning happens in a safe environment. That’s why the National Policy for the Prevention, Management and Control of Alcohol, Drugs and Substance Abuse calls for prevention programs in schools,” NACADA stated.
Rising trend among students
The policy comes against the backdrop of alarming statistics from the latest National Survey on Drug and Substance Use in Universities, released on August 18. The report revealed that 30.4 per cent of university students have consumed alcohol, with 12.2 per cent identified as current drinkers and 10.4 per cent engaging in binge drinking.
Male students were found to be more at risk, raising fears over the long-term implications for the country’s future workforce.
“These figures depict a concerning trend of alcohol abuse jeopardising the future of our youth,” NACADA warned. The authority said urgent interventions are needed to reverse the tide and shield learners from destructive habits.
Tied to government crackdown
The new school-focused policy complements a wider government crackdown on illicit brews spearheaded by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. On Monday, the CS launched a 100-day Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) in Kiambu County, a region long associated with the sale and consumption of illegal alcohol.
The directive targets manufacturers, retailers, and consumers of illicit drinks. NACADA pledged its full support, stating, “The Authority welcomes the directive by the Cabinet Secretary… to combat illicit alcohol targeting manufacturers, retailers, and consumers in Kiambu County.”
The move comes amid growing public outcry over adulterated brews that have claimed lives and ruined livelihoods across the country. NACADA said it would work closely with county governments, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to ensure the initiative achieves lasting results.
Parents urged to act
Beyond enforcement, NACADA is intensifying public education campaigns to strengthen prevention at the household level. On August 20, the agency posted, “Parents: Your home is the first classroom. You are the most important teacher,” urging families to take the lead in discouraging alcohol and drug use among minors.
With reports showing that three in ten learners experiment with alcohol before turning 18, NACADA stressed that the fight begins at home. The authority has also committed to enhance monitoring and evaluation to sustain momentum after the 100-day RRI period.
As the campaign gathers pace, NACADA reiterated its determination to foster a drug-free generation, saying it will continue mobilizing national and county resources to shield young Kenyans from substance abuse.