It appears that it is not all gloomy in as far as fight against alcohol and drug abuse is concerned in Kenya.

Data from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) shows that a vast majority of Kenyans have chosen a life free from substance abuse.

NACADA Board Chairperson Bishop Dr. Stephen Mairori reveals that the data shows 42.5% of Kenyans are lifetime abstainers.

Speaking on Thursday, February 12 during the official opening of the National Substance Use Prevention Week Summit at the Kenya School of Government in Nairobi, Dr. Mairori noted that this numbers are just not statistics, but a testament to national resilience.

“It is the result of conscious choices, shaped by family, faith, personal conviction, and community values. This is the norm we celebrate and the foundation we are determined to reinforce,” Dr Mairori said.

However, the NACADA Board Chairperson noted that the country cannot overlook the shadow cast by other aspects of the data—that 17.5% of adults, and a concerning 26.6% of our university students, have used substances.

According to Dr. Mairori, this disparity highlights a critical battlefield for Kenya: our youth.

“Kenya is a young nation, and our most precious demographic is at risk. The availability of drugs, especially near our learning institutions, is a crisis we must confront with unity and urgency,” he added.

The country’s approach to this damning statistics, Dr Mairori said, must be twofold, and “it is already in motion”.

First, Dr. Mairori says that all stakeholders must amplify their works, bearing in mind that prevention is not n abstract concept; it lives in the home, the house of worship, the classroom, and workplace.

“It is a parent’s guidance, a teacher’s mentorship, and a faith leader’s counsel. This year, we have actively engaged religious leaders across all denominations and counties, harnessing these trusted voices to shape values and fortify our youth.”

Second, Dr. Mairori posits that stakeholders partner relentlessly. He says that NACADA is committed to bridging the gap between policy and action, between state and community.

He also revealed that NACADA was implementing targeted policies in schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods. “Our strategy balances supply reduction with demand reduction, because a safer future requires both dismantling access and strengthening resolve.”

Dr. Mairori said that the summit — whose theme is ‘Empowered Communities, Brighter Futures’ — was meant to share bold stories of prevention, resistance and recovery, and translate concern into coordinated action.

“Let us be clear: Prevention is not an optional line item; it is our most strategic investment in Kenya’s tomorrow. By empowering communities today, we secure brighter, healthier futures for generations to come.”