At the 2025 CND meeting, Kenya, represented by Dr. Stephen Mairori, emphasized the necessity of gender-sensitive drug policies that address specific challenges for both men and women. The revised National Drug Control Policy introduces free rehabilitation services for women and promotes gender-specific interventions, showcasing Kenya’s commitment to inclusivity in drug treatment and policy. Dr. Mairori urged for strengthened international partnerships to enhance program success.
Kenya is advocating for gender-sensitive drug policies to tackle unique challenges faced by men and women in substance abuse. At the 2025 Commission on Narcotic Drugs meeting in Vienna, Dr. Stephen Mairori, Kenyan Delegation Head, highlighted the need for interventions that are inclusive and responsive to gender disparities in drug use and its consequences.
Dr. Mairori pointed out that while drug use is more common among men, women experience more severe repercussions from substance abuse. He emphasized the necessity for rehabilitation frameworks to adapt to women’s specific needs by establishing women-only facilities that address issues like pregnancy and childcare.
In response to these disparities, Kenya has revised its National Drug Control Policy to incorporate gender-sensitive strategies, which acknowledges barriers women face in accessing treatment. Dr. Mairori announced the launch of free rehabilitation services for women at the Miritini Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa to foster greater participation in treatment programs.
To further engage women, the Kenyan government collaborates with local authorities and stakeholders to develop gender-specific prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration initiatives. Dr. Mairori called for ongoing dialogue among policymakers, researchers, and implementers to ensure that international recommendations on gender-sensitive drug policies are effectively integrated into national strategies.
The session, co-sponsored by the UNODC and Norway, provided a platform for discussions on practical solutions to gender disparities in drug policies. Dr. Mairori concluded by urging a collective effort to ensure that no gender is overlooked in drug control initiatives, advocating for the formation of networks to enhance collaborative efforts and innovative policy implementation.
Kenya’s initiative emphasizes the importance of gender-sensitive approaches in drug policies, addressing distinct challenges faced by men and women. By incorporating these strategies into national frameworks and enhancing rehabilitation services for women, Kenya aims to improve treatment accessibility and effectiveness. Continuous dialogue among all stakeholders is vital for the successful implementation of these inclusive measures, reinforcing the need for global cooperation in drug policy reform.
Original Source: www.tv47.digital
