Kirinyaga: Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has called upon churches, communities, and local administrators in Kirinyaga County to lead efforts in adopting preventive healthcare, combating drug and substance abuse, and strengthening family values. This initiative is part of the government’s broader agenda to create a resilient and prosperous nation.
According to Kenya News Agency, Muthoni spoke at Kiangwaci shopping center in Ndia constituency during a meeting with clergy and residents. She highlighted the dangers posed by drug abuse, poor hygiene, and weakening family structures, which are undermining the country’s social fabric and placing heavy burdens on families. The government is working to deepen grassroots partnerships to address these issues.
Muthoni expressed alarm at the rising use of tobacco, alcohol, shisha, and e-cigarettes, especially among young people. She warned that this trend poses a significant threat to the country’s future, describing it as a “ticking
time bomb.” She reminded the public of the ban on shisha and e-cigarettes in Kenya and highlighted the dangers of secondary smoke, which she said is more harmful than direct smoking.
The PS called for zero tolerance towards smoking in homes, schools, and public spaces and urged parents to monitor their children’s behavior closely. She also appealed to public health officials to enforce the Tobacco Control Act of 2007, which includes restrictions on cigarette and alcohol advertising, bans on smoking in public, and prohibitions on entertainment venues operating near schools.
Dorothy Mwenda, the area Assistant County Commissioner, echoed Muthoni’s concerns, noting that drug abuse is contributing to gender-based violence within families. She assured residents that the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) is collaborating with communities, churches, and National Government Administrative officers to eradicate these vices.
On health matters, Muthoni emphasized preventive me
asures, noting that many diseases affecting families can be avoided through practices such as clearing bushes to reduce mosquito breeding, properly treating and storing drinking water, and maintaining high hygiene standards. She cautioned against late diagnosis and self-medication, which contribute to premature deaths, and urged early medical intervention and guidance from Community Health Promoters (CHPs) on preventive health and cancer screening.
Muthoni highlighted the role of families and churches in promoting wellness and moral values, describing them as the first line of defense against destructive behaviors among young people. She stressed the importance of cohesive and upright families in raising disciplined and focused children who become productive members of society.
The PS also took the opportunity to promote the government’s Social Health Authority (SHA), which aims to deliver universal, affordable, and quality healthcare to all Kenyans. She encouraged Kenyans to register in large numbers, noti
ng that healthcare is a constitutional right and should not be politicized. Muthoni praised philanthropists and leaders who fund premiums for vulnerable households, emphasizing that such partnerships ensure no family is left behind.
Further, Muthoni outlined key development projects in Kirinyaga County and other parts of the country, linking them directly to improved health and livelihoods. Initiatives by the Kenya Kwanza government in the area include the Last Mile electricity program, road network expansion, affordable housing projects in Ndia and Sagana, the Sagana Industrial Park, and a modern market in Kagio.
The PS argued that these projects are not just about infrastructure but also about restoring dignity, reducing poverty, and creating opportunities for families to thrive. She urged leaders, parents, faith-based organizations, and grassroots administrators to put aside politics and focus on people-centered programs that safeguard health and strengthen communities.
Muthoni concluded by advocating f
or a collective effort in the fight against drugs, the push for preventive healthcare, the promotion of family values, and the rollout of development projects, all aimed at building a better future for Kenya’s children. She called on everyone to play their part in shaping a healthier and stronger Kenya.