Garissa has a new rehabilitation and community empowerment center. Mustaqbal Recovery Centre, located in Iftin, aims to redefine the approach to recovery.
It was officially opened by County Commissioner Mohamed Ramadhan in a ceremony attended by religious leaders, government officials, and youth representatives on Sunday.
Across the country there is a pressing need for effective rehabilitation services in Kenya. However, challenges such as the high cost of treatment, limited access to quality care, and societal stigma persist.
Innovative approaches that integrate vocational training with traditional rehabilitation methods are emerging as promising solutions to enhance recovery outcomes and promote self-reliance among individuals battling substance abuse.
Mustaqbal integrates technical skills training into its programs. It combines medical and psychological recovery with vocational training.
The approach equips individuals with practical knowledge, increasing their chances of employment and self-reliance.
Religious leaders, including former Kadhi Mohamed Hassan, Dr. Sheikh Abdirashid, and Sheikh Muktar, attended the opening ceremony of the event.
Stakeholders emphasized the role of faith and community support in the recovery process.
The center offers a range of opportunities to help individuals rebuild their lives. These include computing, digital literacy, and hands-on vocational training.
Garissa County Commissioner Ramadhan praised the initiative. “It is a beacon of hope for individuals and families affected by addiction and other challenges. By integrating education and vocational training, we are giving people the tools to rebuild their lives,” he said.
According to the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), 57% of Kenyans have abused drugs or other substances at some point in their lifetime.
Alcohol remains the most commonly abused substance, with a prevalence rate of 11.8% among individuals aged 15 to 65, affecting approximately 3.2 million people. Tobacco and khat follow, with prevalence rates of 8.5% and 3.6%, respectively.
Garissa Youth Chairman Nasteh Buraze welcomed the project. He highlighted its importance in addressing youth challenges.
The youth are particularly vulnerable. Among those aged 15 to 24, 5.2% currently use alcohol, 3.2% use tobacco, and 3.6% consume khat. Cannabis use stands at 2.7% in this demographic.
Notably, 3.8% of youths aged 15 to 24 are polydrug users, meaning they consume multiple substances concurrently.
Garissa Youth Chairman Nasteh Buraze speaks during the launch of Mustaqbal Recovery Centre. Photo/ Courtesy
“Many young people struggle with issues that can lead them down difficult paths. This center gives them a second chance—not just to recover but to build a future through skills and education. It is a game-changer for our community, and we will support it fully,” he said.
Mr. Nasteh Buraze said the opening of Mustaqbal Recovery Centre sets a new benchmark for rehabilitation services in the county.
“It blends recovery with skill-building, creating lasting change for individuals and the community,” said the Garissa youth leader.
The new center has begun operations. Stakeholders have underscored its role in transforming rehabilitation and creating new opportunities through the recovery journey.
Iftin Location Chief Haret Khalif and youth leaders from Iftin Ward pledged their support for the center’s mission.