Drug and substance abuse remains a major social challenge within communities, especially among the youth, hence requires urgent attention from both the Church and society at large. The increasing cases of substance abuse threaten not only the well-being of young people but also the social, moral, spiritual and holistic fabric of the community. The Church has a pivotal role in addressing these emerging and reemerging trends by providing preventive solutions through developed educational and awareness programs that equip young people with essential social and life skills to resist peer pressure, make informed choices, and lead responsible lives. Through spiritual outreaches, mentorship, and moral teaching, the Church helps shape positive values and behaviors among the youth.
Upon conducting the Church and community leader’s advocacy meeting, an action point agreed on was to hold an all-inclusive (from different faiths) youth dialogue session to establish inclusive preventive and corrective measures. Such collaboration will strengthen efforts to combat substance abuse and create sustainable support systems for affected individuals and families regardless of their faiths.
Through the support of Cross Catholic Outreach, the Diocese of Nyahururu WASH Program conducted a Youth Dialogue Forum on Drug and Substance Abuse at St. Augustine Catholic Parish, Muhotetu—an area that has reportedly recorded increased cases of substance abuse among the youth. The forum served as an important platform for awareness creation to over 100 youths, open dialogue, and community engagement in finding practical and lasting solutions to this growing challenge.
