Kenya continues to battle a growing drug and substance abuse problem, with thousands seeking help to reclaim their lives from addiction.
However, one of the most critical challenges for individuals in recovery is the risk of relapse.
While seeking rehabilitation is a crucial first step, long-term success depends on sustained support, community involvement, and comprehensive aftercare.
According to the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), about 12 per cent of Kenyans have abused drugs at some point in their lives, with alcohol, cannabis, and prescription medications being the most misused substances.
In its most recent report, NACADA highlights that alcohol remains the most consumed drug, with an estimated 18.2 per cent of adults regularly engaging in harmful drinking.
Alarmingly, 4.7 per cent of high school students have admitted to using hard drugs like heroin and cocaine.
Innovative strategies, community support, and youth engagement are central to preventing relapse among recovering individuals.
In Kenya, the road to recovery from substance abuse is often long and full of obstacles.
From societal stigma to the scarcity of resources, individuals in recovery face an uphill battle in their quest to rebuild their lives.
According to the NACADA, addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that blends policy, community support, and evidence-based strategies.
The authority states that preventing relapse among individuals recovering from drug and substance use disorders in Kenya requires a comprehensive approach.
Key strategies the authority proposes, include regular counselling and mental health support to address underlying issues that may trigger a return to substance use.
Community-based support groups and family involvement play a critical role, in offering emotional support and accountability, Nacada says.
It is also important to create positive social and environmental changes, such as avoiding triggers and engaging in productive activities.
NACADA advocates for ongoing follow-ups, public education, and training of counsellors to ensure that individuals in recovery have access to the necessary resources for sustained sobriety.
"One of the most pressing issues we face is societal stigma," Deputy Director of Public Advocacy and Awareness at NACADA Judith Twala says.
"Many recovering individuals struggle with reintegration because the community still associates them with their past, making it difficult to access jobs and social networks," Twala says.
This stigma, combined with limited rehabilitation centres and counselling services, creates an environment where relapse becomes a constant threat.
Poverty and unemployment exacerbate the problem.
For many recovering individuals, the lack of job opportunities or financial stability leaves them vulnerable to relapse.
The temptation to return to substance use as a coping mechanism becomes stronger in the absence of purpose or accessible aftercare services.
Peer pressure, especially in environments where substance use is normalised, poses another significant risk to those in recovery.
Moreover, untreated mental health issues often co-occurring with substance use disorders further complicate recovery efforts.
In Kenya, mental health services are still largely under-utilised and inaccessible to those who need them most.
To combat these challenges, NACADA has implemented a range of evidence-based relapse prevention strategies.
Among these is the development of policies and standards that ensure all rehabilitation programs adhere to best practices.
Public education campaigns and advocacy efforts have also been central to NACADA’s approach.
The authority runs awareness campaigns targeting high-risk communities to reduce stigma and educate the public on the importance of treatment and aftercare in preventing relapse.
Capacity building through training addiction counselors with the Universal Treatment Curriculum and Universal Recovery Curriculum ensures that professionals are equipped with the latest tools and strategies to guide individuals through recovery.
NACADA also supports the formation of community-based support groups.
These groups provide recovering individuals with a space to share their experiences and offer mutual encouragement—key elements in staying sober and rebuilding one’s life.
Locally, NACADA has spearheaded initiatives like Recovery Clubs in partnership with rehabilitation centres, providing spaces for individuals to meet regularly and stay accountable.
Faith-based programs in churches and mosques also play a crucial role in relapse prevention, blending spirituality with counseling and support.
Moreover, the authority’s aftercare programs offer continuous follow-ups for individuals post-rehabilitation, helping them navigate the inevitable challenges that arise after treatment.
Recovery is not a solo journey, and NACADA places significant emphasis on the role of family and community in preventing relapse.
Family therapy is encouraged, addressing communication breakdowns and rebuilding trust.
"Addiction is a family disease, and when the family heals together, it creates a stronger foundation for long-term recovery," Twala says.
Community support systems, including peers and mentors, further bolster an individual’s recovery efforts by offering a sense of belonging.
NACADA has been at the forefront of advocating for reduced stigma around rehabilitation, creating educational materials that inform families on how best to support their loved ones through recovery.
Recognising the vulnerability of young people, NACADA has taken proactive steps to engage schools and youth organisations.
Through school-based programmes, they educate students on the dangers of substance use, while training peer counsellors to offer early interventions.
A particularly successful initiative is the nationwide essay competition, which challenges students to explore the impact of social media on substance use.
The competition has sparked critical conversations among youth, empowering them to become advocates for positive change within their communities.
"This competition amplifies their voices in the fight against drug and alcohol abuse," Twala notes.
Despite these efforts, barriers still exist. Kenya suffers from a lack of specialised aftercare programmes, and even when services are available, affordability remains an issue.
Many recovering individuals find it difficult to access therapy due to financial constraints. This makes the support provided by community groups and families even more critical.
For those looking to sustain long-term recovery, NACADA advocates for a holistic plan that includes ongoing counseling, lifestyle changes, and community support.
Individuals are encouraged to engage in productive activities, develop new hobbies, and build healthier relationships.
Regular follow-ups and family involvement are also critical components of the recovery process.
Environmental and social changes are key to preventing relapse. Reducing exposure to substance use cues and surrounding oneself with positive influences can make all the difference.
However, with continued efforts from NACADA and the support of communities, families, and local initiatives, there is hope for lasting recovery.