Murang’a Philanthropist Advocates Vocational Training for Recovering Alcoholics

MURANG’A—A Murang’a philanthropist, Nduta Mwaniki, has emphasized the importance of vocational training for recovering alcoholics, stating that it serves as a crucial support in their battle against addiction. As the Chief Executive Officer of Dream Hub Foundation, Mwaniki, during an address at the Kangema vocational training centre, revealed the foundation’s ongoing partnerships with local vocational training centers. These collaborations have resulted in the enrolment of numerous recovering alcoholics in artisan courses, providing them with essential skills for livelihood as part of their rehabilitation process.

According to Kenya News Agency, unemployment and the high cost of living are significant factors contributing to young Kenyans’ descent into alcohol and drug abuse. The Dream Hub Foundation’s initiative seeks to counteract these issues by offering vocational training as a means to equip the youth with employable skills post-rehabilitation. Highlighting the initiative’s impact, Mwaniki disclosed that over 5000 recovering alcoholics in Murang’a have benefited from free vocational training programs initiated by her organization. Inspired by her personal experiences with family members battling alcoholism, Mwaniki has dedicated over 25 years to the cause, underscoring the role of income-generating skills in sustaining sobriety among the recovering individuals.

The Dream Hub Foundation’s efforts include the employment of additional trainers and provision of meals for enrolled students, ensuring a comprehensive support system throughout their training period. Beyond vocational training, Mwaniki mentioned the foundation’s collaboration with local administration to educate the community on the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse, further assisting in identifying and rehabilitating addicts before introducing them to vocational training opportunities.

Mwaniki also called for broader support from the government and other stakeholders in reviving and expanding vocational training centers across the country. This expansion, she argued, is essential for providing more young people with access to artisan skills, thereby contributing to the ongoing fight against alcoholism.

Support for the initiative was echoed by Muguru Member of County Assembly, Moses Muchiri, who praised the vocational training centres for offering life-changing opportunities to the youth, enabling them to earn a livelihood and maintain sobriety. Faith Njoroge, overseeing vocational training in Murang’a County, affirmed the county’s commitment to equipping young people with income-generating skills, with over 4000 students currently enrolled in regular courses and an additional 1040 sponsored by Murang’a Youth Service for short courses.

The story of Peter Kamathiro, a recovering alcoholic and beneficiary of the program, illustrates the transformative impact of the initiative. Kamathiro and his peers have formed a youth group engaged in baking, turning their newfound skills into a sustainable source of income and a motivation to remain sober.

This initiative represents a multifaceted approach to combating alcoholism, combining rehabilitation, skill development, and community support to foster a conducive environment for recovery and self-sufficiency among the youth in Murang’a.