Mt Kenya Region – In an innovative approach to address the widespread issue of illicit brews, drug, and substance abuse among its youth, leaders in the Mt Kenya region are increasingly turning to sports. By sponsoring local sports events, these leaders aim to provide the youth with constructive activities and potential livelihood opportunities.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking at a recent tournament in Kangema, sports are seen as a vital tool in deterring youth from alcohol and substance abuse. “We will continue to engage our youth for the growth of their talents even as we give them opportunities to earn a livelihood in a dignified way,” he said, emphasizing the dual benefits of sports in talent development and discipline. The MP also highlighted his commitment to supporting youth sports initiatives through the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), covering all four wards in the constituency.
In Maragua, a neighboring constituency, MP Mary Waithera (Wamaua) echoes a similar commitment. Through the NG-CDF, she has been actively sponsoring leagues across the constituency’s four wards. “Sports play an important role in delivering youths from drugs and substance abuse, and that is why we will continue to support them to make a positive impact in society,” she stated. Wamaua underscored the role of sports in enhancing connections among youth, improving their decision-making skills, and ensuring a better future for the next generations.
The sporting events offer not just engagement but also tangible rewards. Participants receive awards, with trophy bearers and winners benefiting significantly from the prizes. This initiative comes in the backdrop of a worrying trend highlighted by a survey from the National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA). The 2022 report revealed that alcohol is the most abused drug in Kenya, with approximately 3,199,119 people aged 15-65 years currently using it. The Western region tops the list with a prevalence of 23.8 percent, followed by the Coast region at 13.9 percent, and Central Kenya, where Mt Kenya is located, ranks third at 12.8 percent.