By Mapenzi Kitsao

In commemoration of World Mental Health Day, the Women Empowerment Network, in collaboration with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), Mission Relief Africa, and Helping Hands, came together to address the issue of mental health as a fundamental human right.

The event took place in Miritini, Mombasa County on Tuesday.

Amina Abdalla, the Founder and Chairperson of Mombasa Women Empowerment Network, underscored the growing concern of mental health issues in Mombasa County, primarily due to the rising problem of drug abuse.

She revealed that 70 percent of the victims her organization has assisted were drug abusers.

"Khat chewing has caused more harm than good. Seventy percent of the people we've helped were drug abusers. The ready availability and easy access to these drugs have had a profound impact on the mental well-being of primary and secondary students. We need to reconsider the acceptance of such a cash crop in our society, given its predominantly negative effects," Abdalla stated.

Despite their dedicated efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, Mr. Wickliffe Obongo, an advisor at NACADA, expressed concerns about emerging trends in drug and substance abuse.

Obongo pointed to the prevalence of new drugs such as ‘zombie drugs’ and a recently discovered substance called ‘Velo.’

"The main challenge for NACADA is the emergence of new drug trends. We are trying our best to reduce the number of drug consumers," he said.

In addition to discussions and walks commemorating the day, Rafiki Rauf, Chairperson of Mission Relief Africa, stressed the importance of taking concrete actions during such events.

"While we often organize talks and walks on these occasions, it's crucial that our actions speak louder than our words. Therefore, we've partnered with other organizations to bring positive change to our communities and peers," Rauf explained.

He also highlighted that drug and substance abuse remains a significant challenge for their organization, impacting children as young as 17.

"We've delved into the Indian and Arab communities and discovered a concerning surge in drug use, particularly sheesha. Even school-going children have not been spared," Rauf added.

The Chairperson and Founder of the Mombasa Women Empowerment Network called for recognition and support from both the national and county governments.

"I would like the government to grant us an opportunity, or even an office, if possible, to address the issue of mental health comprehensively. Furthermore, we seek recognition as a distinctive organization providing essential services," she said.