Wajir County residents unite to fight drug abuse

Wajir County residents have answered a call to join the fight against drugs and substance abuse, pledging commitment to raising awareness, providing support networks, and implementing prevention programmes tailored to specific community needs.

Recognising the crucial role that communities play in tackling the issue, women from various parts of the town have come together to mobilise others and help address the challenge.

Their objective is to harness the collective strength of residents to tackle the underlying causes of drug abuse and implement impactful solutions.

At a gathering at the office of Woman Representative Fatuma Jeho in Wajir town on Monday, Khadija Nyambura recognised the importance of sensitisation campaigns that will engage a wide range of stakeholders.

Nyambura advocated for a community-driven approach to address the issue of drug abuse.

"This approach prioritises raising awareness, fostering support networks, collaborating with law enforcement, involving youth in constructive activities, offering family support, and advocating for policy changes," she said.

Nyambura proposed the establishment of a neighbourhood watch group specifically dedicated to addressing drug-related activities.

She underlined the importance of vigilant community members working together to identify and report suspicious behaviour to law enforcement agencies.

The local community has also proposed the formulation of policy initiatives on education, counselling, and rehabilitation services.

Human rights advocate Kheire Abdullahi said creating safe spaces for individuals struggling with addiction to seek help without fear of judgment remains paramount in the county.

"As the local community, we have agreed to collaborate with law enforcement and healthcare professionals to address the root causes of substance abuse and promote healthier lifestyles," she said.

Khaire noted that this will empower the younger generation to make informed choices, steering them away from the allure of illicit substances.

"Such engagement initiatives with the right people are the only way to disrupt the supply chain and financial networks supporting the trade," she said.

Kheire further said that empowering women with knowledge and support systems would accelerate the fight against drugs.

The office of the woman representative and the County Anti-Drug and Hard Substance Task Force are supporting the sensitisation gatherings, as well as the involvement of local communities in the municipality to combat drug and substance abuse among the youth.

Ibrahim Mohamed, a member of the task force, said women leaders are very effective in fostering a collective commitment to combating drug-related issues.

Ibrahim noted that drug abuse among young people can have far-reaching effects on their physical health, mental well-being, academic performance, and overall prospects.

"Physically, it can lead to various health problems, such as liver damage, heart issues, and weakened immune systems," he said. "Drug abuse among young people not only jeopardises their physical health and mental well-being but also undermines their academic performance and prospects."

Ibrahim Mohamed attends a symposium in Wajir town on June 10, 2024, of residents aiming to actively contribute to creating a drug-free environment in the county. (Photo: Mohamed Abdirahman)

Women, in particular, were urged to leverage their influential positions within families and communities to raise awareness about the dangers of drugs and substance abuse.

Muumina Olow said the gathering gave room to hear personal experiences and concerns regarding the impact of drugs on their families and the wider community.

She expressed her determination to take a stand against the disaster and actively contribute to creating a drug-free environment.

"Education is key to addressing the issue of drug abuse among young individuals. We must prioritise educating them about the consequences of drug use and empowering them with the necessary life skills to resist peer pressure," she said.