Kenya is actively promoting gender-sensitive drug policies at the 2025 Commission on Narcotic Drugs meeting in Vienna. Dr. Stephen Mairori emphasized that women face greater consequences from substance abuse, advocating for women-only rehabilitation centers and free services to enhance access. The revised National Drug Control Policy aims to remove barriers for women, showcasing Kenya’s commitment to inclusive drug policy approaches.
Kenya has reiterated its dedication to implementing gender-sensitive drug policies at the global level. During the recent 2025 Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) meeting in Vienna, Dr. Stephen Mairori, the Board Chair and Head of the Kenyan Delegation, underscored the need for inclusive interventions that address the distinct challenges faced by both men and women in the context of substance abuse.
In his address at the side event titled “Building Effective Partnerships on Gender and Drug Policy,” Dr. Mairori pointed out the significant differences in drug use patterns between genders. He highlighted that while men tend to have higher rates of drug use, the adverse effects of substance abuse are often more drastic for women. This observation indicates a pressing need for rehabilitation frameworks that align with gender specifics to enhance both accessibility and effectiveness.
He proposed the establishment of women-only rehabilitation centers tailored to meet women’s unique requirements, which include considerations for pregnancy, childcare, and safety. Dr. Mairori emphasized, “While men are more likely to use drugs, the impact of substance abuse is often more severe for women. This calls for targeted interventions.”
To address these issues proactively, Kenya recently updated its National Drug Control Policy to include gender-sensitive strategies. The revised policy aims to eliminate the barriers women encounter in accessing treatment. Dr. Mairori noted that NACADA has introduced complimentary rehabilitation services for women at the Miritini Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa to enhance the participation of women in treatment programs.
Dr. Mairori stated, “We recognize the low uptake of rehabilitation services among female drug users, and in response, we are offering free services at Miritini to remove financial barriers.” He also mentioned the collaboration with county governments and key stakeholders to implement gender-specific programs focused on prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
Stressing the importance of ongoing dialogue among policymakers, researchers, and implementers, Dr. Mairori urged countries to adhere to international guidelines on gender-sensitive drug policies. He called for strong partnerships to enhance the efficacy of these programs.
The session, co-sponsored by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Norwegian government, served as a vital forum for experts to deliberate on practical solutions for rectifying gender disparities in drug policies. Dr. Mairori concluded with a reminder that no gender should be neglected in drug control initiatives: “As we move forward, we must ensure no gender is left behind in our drug control efforts.”
This event highlighted the crucial significance of global cooperation in fostering inclusive drug policies tailored to the needs of both men and women, reinforcing Kenya’s role in championing gender-sensitive approaches in drug control.
In summary, Kenya is advocating for and implementing gender-sensitive drug policies to address the unique challenges faced by women and men in substance abuse situations. The recent updates to the National Drug Control Policy and initiatives like free rehabilitation services at the Miritini Centre exemplify Kenya’s commitment to enhancing treatment access for women. Continuous dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders remains vital to ensure these programs effectively meet diverse needs. Through global partnerships and adherence to international recommendations, Kenya aims to lead in the promotion of inclusive drug policies.
Original Source: www.tv47.digital
