Talking to Children About Drugs: A Guide for Kenyan Parents
Last updated: 3 November 2026
Questions and answers
At what age do children in Kenya start using drugs?
NACADA's 2022 survey found that the youngest reported ages of first use were 6 years for tobacco, 7 for alcohol and 8 for cannabis and prescription drugs, although the average age of starting is 16 to 20. Prevention should begin with honest conversations in primary school.
How do I talk to my teenager about drugs and alcohol?
Start early and keep talking. Ask what they already know, listen without lecturing, share facts rather than scare stories, explain your family rules and why, and practise ways to say no to friends. Model the behaviour you want to see. Keep the door open so they come to you if they get into trouble.
Why do students use drugs?
Common reasons include curiosity, peer pressure, stress over exams, wanting to fit in, boredom, easy availability around schools, family problems and believing drugs improve focus or confidence. Addressing these underlying needs is part of prevention and treatment.
Can teenagers go to rehab?
Yes, but young people need programmes designed for their age, with family involvement and education support. Not every centre admits minors, so ask the centre directly.
What are the effects of drugs on students' performance?
Alcohol and drugs affect memory, attention and motivation, leading to missed classes, poor grades, discipline problems and dropping out. Cannabis use in the teenage years is linked to poorer learning. Early help can protect a student's education.
What should a school do if a student is using drugs?
Respond with support rather than only punishment: involve parents, refer the student to a counsellor or health professional, and ensure confidentiality. Expulsion without support often pushes young people further into drug use. NACADA provides prevention guidance for schools.
Worried about someone? Talk to our team in confidence: 0706 466 150 or WhatsApp.
Sources
- NACADA – National Survey on the Status of Drugs and Substance Use in Kenya 2022 (abridged): nacada.go.ke
- NACADA – How to get assistance / Helpline 1192: nacada.go.ke/how-get-assistance
- NACADA – Directory of accredited rehabilitation centres: nacada.go.ke/rehabilitation-centers
- Kenyans.co.ke (15 Jan 2026) – NACADA orders closure of 15 rehab centres; 1.3 million Kenyans need treatment
- The Star (14 Jan 2025) – NACADA warning to unaccredited rehab centres
- The Standard – Survey: most Kenyans have used alcohol or abused drugs (NACADA 2022 figures)
- Capital FM – Minimum age for initiation into drugs falls to 6 (NACADA 2022 report)
- Capital FM Business (Jan 2026) – SHA to offer enhanced treatment cover for drug addicts
- The Standard – SHA to offer rehabilitation services for teachers suffering from addiction
- Harm Reduction International – Kenya country profile (methadone / MAT clinics)
- Kenya Law – Mental Health Act (as amended 2022); Alcoholic Drinks Control Act 2010; Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act 1994; Data Protection Act 2019
- World Health Organization – alcohol and substance use fact sheets; US National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – treatment and relapse; US CDC – cannabis use disorder
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified health professional. If you or someone you know is in danger, call 999 or 112.
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