NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 30 – The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has launched the 2026 National Senior School Essay Writing Competition on Alcohol and Drug Use Prevention, targeting senior school students across the country.
The authority’s Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa stated that the competition aims to empower learners to actively engage in substance use prevention through critical thinking, reflection, and positive advocacy.
“This year’s theme, “Protecting Our Future: Making Drug-Free Choices in School and Beyond,” aligns with NACADA’s renewed national prevention strategy following a directive by President William Samoei Ruto to intensify efforts against alcohol and drug abuse, particularly among young people,” he stated.
He pointed out that the initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to demand reduction through early prevention, education, and youth empowerment.
The competition he stated is open to senior school students in Grades 10, 11, and 12. Participants are required to submit one original, handwritten essay of between 800 and 1,000 words, written in either English or Kiswahili. “Essays must be original and unpublished, with submissions closing on Friday, March 28, 2026.”
According to Omerikwa, the initiative seeks to raise awareness on the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse, promote responsible decision-making, and strengthen life skills among learners.
“The competition is aligned with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the Life Skills Education framework, reinforcing competencies such as critical thinking, self-efficacy, citizenship, and effective communication.”
He stated that all students may choose essay topics addressing issues 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 accompanied by a duly signed and stamped entry form, endorsed by the school principal or head teacher,” he said.
He observed that winning essays will be published in the NACADA Newsletter, with awards to 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.
