Mentorship, life skills training, and entrepreneurship programs are helping young people overcome substance abuse and build brighter futures.
Ngong Town in Kajiado North Sub-county is one of the towns witnessing positive change among young people through the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) Youth Empowerment Project.
Established nationally in July 2012 and then moved to counties, Kajiado County took the initiative and launched the project in 2024 to address the growing challenge of alcohol and substance abuse among youth while promoting leadership, life skills, and economic empowerment.
According to Lydia Maritim, a compliance officer at NACADA Kajiado sub-county, before the program was introduced, many young people in the area faced unemployment, peer pressure, drug abuse, and limited access to mentorship opportunities, factors that negatively affected their education, health, and future prospects.
“Through partnerships with local leaders, schools, community-based organizations, and youth groups, NACADA has engaged more than 200 young people in awareness campaigns, life skills training, sports activities, talent development, and entrepreneurship workshops,” she told KNA.
She explained that participants are equipped with knowledge on the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse, decision-making, conflict resolution, and leadership skills.
The project, Maritim added, has also created safe spaces where young people can openly discuss challenges affecting them and receive guidance from trained mentors and counselors.
One of the beneficiaries, Daniel Musyoka, had dropped out of school due to drug addiction and negative peer influence. After joining the program, he underwent counseling, participated in life skills training, and acquired digital marketing skills.
“Through the program, I received counseling and gained skills that helped me rebuild my life,” he said.
Today, Musyoka runs a small online business and serves as a peer educator, encouraging fellow youth to avoid drugs and focus on personal growth.
The project also supports youth-led initiatives such as environmental clean-up exercises, sports tournaments, and anti-drug awareness campaigns.
According to project coordinators, these activities have strengthened community cohesion while providing constructive alternatives to risky behaviour.
“Currently there are only private rehabilitation centers in Kajiado North sub-county, which are very expensive, but the government is planning to set one up,” she said.
Maritim, however, noted that community leaders and parents have observed a positive change in youth behavior, including increased school attendance, reduced involvement in related activities, and greater participation in community development programs.
The NACADA Youth Empowerment Project continues to demonstrate the impact of investing in young people through mentorship, education, and economic opportunities, helping build a healthier and more productive generation in Kajiado North Sub-county.
By Isabella Mike
