The Evidence Is Clear: Let’s Invest in Prevention, Now More Than Ever

As we mark International Day Against Drug Abuse on today, June 26th, 2025, I write this not just as a health professional but as someone who has walked with communities, seen the pain of addiction, and felt the urgency for change. This year’s theme, “Evidence is clear: Invest in prevention,” isn’t just a slogan—it’s a call to action.

I’ve watched brilliant young minds waste away for lack of guidance, support, and opportunity. But I’ve also seen what hope looks like when a youth chooses mentorship over addiction, when a school, church, or community says “no more” and opens space for dialogue—and means it.

According to the UNODC, over 296 million people used drugs in 2021—a 23% increase over the previous decade. In Kenya, NACADA reports that 1 in every 5 youth aged 15–24 has used drugs or alcohol. The evidence also tells us that prevention works. Research shows that up to 30% of substance use reduction can be achieved through early intervention—in schools, families, and communities. Every dollar invested in prevention yields returns up to tenfold, saving lives and reducing costs in treatment, healthcare, and lost productivity.

That’s why I’m inspired by the work happening right now in the heart of Nairobi. In Majengo, Kamukunji Sub-County, Diplomats for Health in Resilient Community is holding space for young people—creating circles of care, conversation, and learning. Through mentorship, youth-led forums, and community-based dialogues, they’re making prevention tangible. They’re giving our young people what they need most: to be seen, heard, and guided toward healthier futures. They are living proof that meaningful change begins when we prioritize people over punishment, connection over condemnation.

And on a deeply personal note, I know what it means when we give up on someone too early. I’ve sat with families mourning a lost son or daughter—gone too soon, too quietly. But I’ve also seen redemption. I’ve seen a teenager who once peddled on street corners become a peer mentor for others. I’ve seen former users lead awareness campaigns in their estates. Prevention isn’t abstract—it’s human, it’s real, and it's urgent.

If we wait until addiction takes hold, we’ve already paid too steep a price. The time to act is now. So today, I echo the voices of every parent, youth, and frontline worker: let’s invest in prevention.Not because it’s convenient—but because it works. Because the evidence is clear. And because every life saved is a future regained.

By Govinda Moses Otieno