AI-generated image showing a student focused on writing.The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse has launched a national essay writing competition on alcohol and drug use prevention targeting senior school students across Kenya.
Nacada CEO Anthony Omerikwa said the competition seeks to empower learners to actively engage in substance use prevention through critical thinking, reflection and positive advocacy.
The competition, themed “Protecting Our Future: Making Drug-Free Choices in School and Beyond,” forms part of Nacada’s intensified national strategy following President William Ruto’s directive to strengthen efforts against alcohol and drug abuse, particularly among youth.
The essay competition is a broader effort to build a drug-free society by engaging youth as agents of change.
"The competition is open to all senior school students. Participants must submit one original, handwritten essay of between 800 and 1,000 words, written in either English or Kiswahili," Omerikwa said.
He added that all essays must be unpublished, with submissions closing on Friday, March 28, 2026.
In a statement, Omerikwa emphasised that the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to reducing alcohol and drug use through early prevention, education and youth advocacy.
He said enhanced awareness of the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse will encourage responsible decision-making and strengthen life skills among learners.
"The competition aligns with Kenya’s Competency-Based Education (CBE) and life skills education framework, reinforcing competencies such as critical thinking, self-efficacy, citizenship and effective communication," he said.
Interested participants in the competition are at liberty to choose from a wide range of topics they feel will best articulate their arguments.
Students are encouraged to explore topics such as peer pressure, academic performance, the role of schools, parental and community responsibility and positive peer support in preventing substance abuse.
"All entries must be submitted with a duly signed and stamped entry form endorsed by the school principal or head teacher," Omerikwa stressed, highlighting the broad approach and sensitivity of the contest.
Omerikwa said winning essays will be published in the Nacada newsletter and awards will be presented during the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADA) on June 26, 2026.
Teachers of winning students will also receive recognition certificates.
Schools, parents and students can access detailed guidelines and entry forms on the Nacada website at www.nacada.go.ke.
The authority encouraged schools nationwide to actively participate and support their students in crafting thoughtful and impactful essays.
By offering a platform for creative expression and dialogue, Nacada seeks to nurture a generation capable of resisting substance abuse and contributing positively to community well-being.
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