An Investigation on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Among Vulnerable Groups in Kenya: the Case of Families in Mukuru Kwa Njenga Slums in Nairobi

Abstract

Alcohol and drug abuse is a global problem which needs intervention at all levels. It cannot be ignored as its effects are not only felt by the abuser but also the society at large, either in their health, socially, emotionally or economically. ADA affects people in all walks of life; the rich, the middle class as well as the poor living in slums like Mukuru Kwa Njenga. This reality prompted the researcher to carry out a study on ADA Abuse Among Vulnerable Groups in Kenya: The Case Of Families In Mukuru Kwa Njenga Slums In Nairobi. The study was guided by the following objectives : To identify the specific alcoholic and other substances commonly abused by families living in Mukuru Kwa Njenga Slums in Nairobi, To establish the factors that contribute to alcohol and drug abuse by families living in Mukuru Kwa Njenga Slums in Nairobi, To establish the effects of consumption of alcohol and drugs on families living in Mukuru Kwa Njenga Slums in Nairobi and To suggest strategies for alcohol and drug demand reduction among families living in Mukuru Kwa Njenga Slums in Nairobi. The study used descriptive survey research design, a questionnaire and interview guides were used to collect primary data. Questionnaires were administered to a sample of 120 respondents who are adults and live in Mukuru kwa Njenga. Interviews were done to three key informants; the area chief, headteacher Kwa Njenga Primary and the priest in charge St. Bhakita Catholic Church. The following were the findings of the study: (i). Specifically, the respondents indicated that they were aware of marijuana, alcohol, cigarettes, bhang, cocaine, changaa, khat, sheesha, ―kumikumi‖, busaa, spirits and glue. (ii). the main factor contributing to consumption of alcohol and/or other drugs in Mukuru Kwa Njenga Slums is stress, followed by peer pressure, mass media, family breakups, pressure to do well in school and parental influence. (iii). Consumption of alcohol and other drugs, led to: wastage of money, aggressiveness, addiction, family break ups, increase in crime, depression, school drop outs, family disharmony and death. (iv). the findings indicated that the following measures were being employed to curb alcohol and drug abuse in the area: guidance and counseling, rehabilitation centers, awareness campaigns, peer education. In conclusion, the study recommends enforcement of laws on: distribution and sale of alcohol and other legal drugs, dealers of substances of abuse. Creation of employment opportunities, suggest ways of enhancing living standards in slums to reduce stress and set up more rehabilitation centers to help the addicted.