This archive report was first published on 24 May 2020.
As the country continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, a non-profit organisation has stepped in to help young men in Mathioya, Murang'a County, who have turned to drinking hand sanitisers due to alcohol addiction.
Central Ahadi Kenya Trust has offered to rehabilitate the young men and help them start their lives afresh. The organisation's Executive Director, Stanley Kamau, expressed concern that the government should also look at other emerging issues to help those in dire need.
"These are really hard times for everyone. When you are addicted to alcohol, you are likely to have withdrawal symptoms when you don't drink at all. That is why some of these people are turning to anything they find in their way," Kamau said.
He noted that the government should create awareness on the dangers of consuming sanitisers, which could have adverse health effects. Kamau also appealed to well-wishers to reach out to needy families in their neighbourhoods.
On a visit to Kiria-ini market, Kamau handed over a chicken to one of the five youth who had drunk sanitisers. The organisation has offered to help the young men start their lives anew.
Published on May 24, 2020
