Kenya advocates for gender-sensitive drug policies at the 2025 Commission on Narcotic Drugs meeting in Vienna, emphasizing tailored rehabilitation programs addressing the unique challenges faced by women. Dr. Stephen Mairori highlights the need for inclusive interventions and the introduction of free rehabilitation services for women to increase treatment accessibility. The country seeks to strengthen global partnerships and improve strategies for drug control that support both genders.
In Vienna, Austria, Kenya reaffirmed its commitment to gender-sensitive drug policies at the 2025 Commission on Narcotic Drugs meeting. Dr. Stephen Mairori, Board Chair and Head of the Kenyan Delegation, emphasized the need for inclusive strategies that address the specific challenges faced by men and women in relation to substance abuse.
Dr. Mairori highlighted the differing drug use patterns between genders, noting that while men are more likely to consume drugs, women tend to experience more severe consequences from substance abuse. He stressed that rehabilitation programs must be tailored to these gender-specific needs to enhance their accessibility and effectiveness.
To address these challenges, Kenya has revised its National Drug Control Policy to include gender-sensitive strategies. This updated approach recognizes the barriers women encounter when seeking treatment and incorporates solutions to help mitigate these obstacles.
NACADA has initiated free rehabilitation services for women at the Miritini Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa, aiming to improve participation in treatment programs. Dr. Mairori remarked on the low uptake of services among female drug users and emphasized the importance of removing financial barriers to treatment.
Continuous dialogue among policymakers, researchers, and implementers is crucial for integrating global best practices into national strategies. Dr. Mairori urged all nations to adhere to international recommendations for gender-sensitive drug policies and to reinforce partnerships aimed at enhancing program efficacy.
The session, co-sponsored by the UNODC and the Norwegian government, offered a forum for experts to explore practical solutions for addressing gender disparities within drug policies. Dr. Mairori concluded his remarks by stressing the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure that no gender is left behind in drug control initiatives.
In conclusion, Kenya’s efforts to integrate gender-sensitive strategies into drug policies represent a significant step toward addressing the unique challenges faced by both men and women. By adapting rehabilitation frameworks and fostering international cooperation, Kenya aims to set a precedent in promoting inclusive approaches to substance abuse treatment, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of drug control programs.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
