The consumption of toxic, illegally brewed alcohol, and the abuse of drugs among Africa’s youth pose significant barriers to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as outlined in both Agenda 2030 and Agenda
2063. This issue not only threatens individual health and safety but also undermines public health and erodes the fabric of society, hindering economic stability and impeding progress towards a healthier, more prosperous future. Numerous cases of death and hospitalisation have been recorded due to exposure to these toxic substances. Furthermore, many people who have been using narcotics such as cannabis, khat (miraa), toxic
alcohol and any other forms of drugs have had serious health issues, including mental health disorders, HIV/AIDS from needle sharing, and other diseases. These substances present a serious challenge to the development and well-being of individuals and communities across the country. The State, through its diverse services, struggles to address the phenomenon. Public health and law enforcement are constantly in alert and strive to fight this prohibited practice that has affected social relations and economic stability.
Street medicine, also referred to as the "informal market," plays a significant role in the healthcare systems of several African countries, including Guinea, Cameroon, Congo, Ethiopia, Madagascar, and Ivory Coast. This market is characterized by its high accessibility, convenience, and affordability, becoming an unofficial core part of the health system. The growth of the informal market is both a response to and a consequence of the failure of states to provide adequate medicine to their populations. This paper explores the dynamics of the informal medicine market, its impacts on public health, and the reasons behind its preference over the formal healthcare system, focusing on a case study from the Ivory Coast.
Drug and substance abuse (DSA) is a significant public health concern in Kenya, impacting individuals, families, and communities across various demographics. Understanding the prevalence, types, and patterns of DSA is essential for developing targeted interventions that address the specific needs of different age groups and genders. This paper presents findings from a comprehensive study conducted in four counties, highlighting key insights into the nature and extent of DSA in Kenya.
A high standard of living, quality of life and well-being for all citizens.
The issue of SD3 leads to severe health consequences, including mental health disorders, HIV/AIDS, and other diseases, straining public health resources and undermining economic stability. Addressing this crisis requires integrated strategies that strengthen healthcare, enhance law enforcement, promote education, and empower communities to foster a healthier, more prosperous future for all Kenyans.
Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in Agenda 2030 and Agenda 2063 requires addressing numerous challenges, particularly in the realm of public health. In Kenya, the rampant consumption of toxic, illegally brewed alcohol and the abuse of drugs among the youth significantly impede progress towards these goals.
Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
good health and well-being
The social fabric is eroded as addiction disrupts family structures and community relationships, while economic stability is undermined by decreased productivity and increased burden on social services and law enforcement. To address these challenges, a comprehensive approach involving stricter regulations, public awareness, access to rehabilitation, community engagement, and addressing socio-economic factors is essential.
The high incidence of deaths, hospitalizations, and health complications such as mental disorders and HIV/AIDS from needle sharing burdens the healthcare system and undermines community well-being. The negative social and economic impacts hinder the development of inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and settlements, making it imperative for coordinated efforts involving public health, law enforcement, and community organizations to address this challenge effectively.
The complex societal phenomenon may require a holistic approach for an effective change in people’s behavior. The State’s intervention alone, that consist in the provision of public health and law enforcement, is not enough. Community-based initiatives, often supported by NGOs and groups, play a crucial role in providing education, prevention, and rehabilitation services at the local level. It is within this framework that Wezesha, in collaboration with Undugu Place of Peace and Street Medicine Africa are organizing a Symposium that would bring together international experts, NGOs, agencies, groups and those working to combat illicit alcohol and drug use in Kenya, to promote sharing and networking across disciplines and sectors.
To convene stakeholders to share experiences and articulate strategies for tackling this significant issue as a shared responsibility.
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Participants will identify gaps and collaborate to address the root causes of illicit alcohol and drug abuse, learn from others providing support to those affected, and ultimately work to reduce the prevalence of substance abuse in society.
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To build and strengthen
cooperation among medical
practitioners, NGOs, and
universities, encouraging
continued conversation on illicit
alcohol and drug abuse control.
Established in 2010 Wezesha Swahili for ‘empower’, is an African Diaspora led Development organization that aim to support, promote and empower African Women, Children and Youth, who have been affected or are likely to be affected by issues of conflict, violence and poverty. The organization works in collaboration with local groups and stakeholders in establishing partnerships to raise awareness and to end sexual and gender-based violence and poverty. With Headquarter in Dublin, Wezesha has branches in Kenya and Democratic Republic of Congo.
Initiated in 2023, SMA key objective is to convene and facilitate the exchange of ideas, skills, and experiences,
fostering a culture of learning and collaboration through conferences, workshops and meetings for professionals working with individuals affected by illicit alcohol and drug use and abuse, or those working in the area of health and with vulnerable groups. SMA seeks to foster sharing and networking across disciplines and sectors, identify gaps and strategies, and address the growing challenge of alcohol and drug use and abuse in Kenya. There is also a hope to replicate this model in other African countries.
In December 2023, former staff members of the Undugu Society of Kenya came together to establish a collaborative effort to combat the ongoing, serious problem of alcohol and drug abuse. Applying their expertise, knowledge, and experience gained from working with vulnerable communities, primarily in the slums of Nairobi, the group oversees two innovative initiatives. The first, Undugu Place of Peace, runs a rehabilitation program for individuals affected by alcohol and drug abuse.
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