Muslim clerics and community leaders have called for renewed efforts among all stakeholders in addressing the rising drugs and substance abuse crisis in Lamu.
Speaking during a stakeholder’s forum held in Mahrus hotel in Lamu Island Abubakar Shekuwe, the Chairperson of the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) Lamu branch, expressed his deep concern over the mental health implications that drugs and substance abuse is having among youths in Lamu.
He stated that in a bid to address the drugs and mental health crisis, there needs to be a collaboration with security, health and religious leaders in tackling the scourge.
He further revealed a growing health and social crisis with concerns that teenagers could also be taking up the use of drugs.
Shekuwe urged for renewed efforts in adopting the Nyumba Kumi initiative and community policing, emphasizing the pivotal role that religious institutions can play in guiding parents and guardians to steer their children away from the harmful effects of drugs and substances.
He underscored the urgent need for a collective response, stating that the mental health of drug users is also at stake.
Mohammed Skanda, the Coordinator of MUHURI Lamu, echoed the cleric’s sentiments, calling for coordinated efforts among security, religious, and health actors in Lamu.
Skanda disclosed alarming statistics, revealing that 1 out of 4 people seeking healthcare in Lamu are grappling with mental health challenges induced by substance abuse.
“During a recent meeting attended by religious leaders, Lamu County Department for Health officials, security actors, and media representatives, a groundbreaking initiative was discussed, aimed at mitigating mental health challenges and curbing the menace of narcotic substances in Lamu County,” he said
He further stated that the intersection of mental health, substance abuse, and the escalating threat of violence and extremism was important to note stressing the need to tackle the vice before it has significant effects on Lamu’s population.
“Poor parenting, idleness, and peer pressure are contributors to the pervasive issue of substance abuse,” Lamu Central Deputy County Commissioner Charles Kitheka stressed, adding the importance of community engagement through the Nyumba Kumi Initiative and Community Policing to curb the influx of illicit drugs.
Kitheka highlighted the gravity of drug abuse, labeling it as a disease that requires treatment.
He urged society to comprehend the severity of the issue and called for collective efforts to educate the community against consuming and peddling illicit drugs.
In addition, he emphasized the need for a supportive approach to those affected, urging parents and guardians not to stigmatize individuals undergoing recovery.
By Amenya Ochieng
