Kenya Unveils Free Rehab for Women In Austria Meeting

Kenya has reinforced its commitment to gender-responsive drug policies, vowing to address the unique challenges faced by men and women in substance abuse interventions.

Speaking at the 2025 Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) meeting in Vienna, Dr. Stephen Mairori, Board Chair and Head of the Kenyan Delegation, emphasized the urgency of tailoring drug control measures to the distinct struggles of women, who often experience more severe consequences from addiction.

"While men are more likely to use drugs, the impact is disproportionately harsher on women. We must implement targeted interventions, including women-only rehabilitation centers that address specific needs such as pregnancy, childcare, and safety concerns," Dr. Mairori stated.

Kenya is already making strides with a revised National Drug Control Policy that integrates gender-sensitive strategies. In a landmark move, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has introduced free rehabilitation services for women at the Miritini Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa, a move aimed at breaking financial barriers and increasing treatment uptake.

NACADA Board Chair Dr. Stephen Mairori speaking in Vienna, Austria on March 11, 2025. /NACADA

"We recognize the low participation of female drug users in rehab programs. To combat this, we are offering free services at Miritini and partnering with county governments to roll out gender-specific prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs," Dr. Mairori announced.

The session, co-sponsored by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Norwegian government, became a platform for experts to explore innovative approaches to gender disparities in drug policy.

Dr. Mairori urged global leaders to adopt international recommendations and collaborate to strengthen gender-sensitive drug policies.

"No gender should be left behind in the fight against substance abuse. We must build networks, foster partnerships, and create policies that reflect the diverse realities of those affected," he concluded.

With Kenya at the forefront of these reforms, the country sets a precedent for inclusive, equitable drug policies—a crucial step toward ensuring that addiction treatment is accessible, effective, and tailored to all.