NAIROBI, Kenya – Parliament is set to debate a new law that could reshape how Kenya addresses drug and substance abuse by compelling both the national and county governments to establish rehabilitation and harm reduction programmes.
The Harm Reduction Bill, 2025, sponsored by Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, seeks to create a legal framework for delivering harm reduction services in public health facilities.
The proposed law aims to reduce drug-related deaths, overdoses, and the spread of infectious diseases while expanding access to treatment and support for addicts and their families.
If enacted, the law will require the Health Cabinet Secretary to develop a national policy and strategy on harm reduction, designate a directorate within the ministry to coordinate services, and set standards for facilities offering care.
“The Cabinet Secretary shall develop a comprehensive policy and a national strategy on harm reduction to ensure improved welfare and treatment of persons with substance use disorder,” the Bill states.
Among the interventions proposed are:
- Access to medical treatment and psychosocial support
- Peer recovery programmes and counselling
- Community sensitisation on care and rehabilitation
- A national register of persons with substance use disorder, including data on age, gender, diagnosis, and related deaths
The Bill defines harm reduction as public health strategies aimed at minimising the negative consequences of drug use — from safer and managed use to complete abstinence.
At the county level, health executives will be obligated to implement the national strategy, mobilise resources, and allocate adequate funds to establish and maintain harm reduction services in local hospitals.
Failure to provide such services could carry criminal penalties. Health providers who deliberately deny addicts access to care, or withhold treatment and information, risk a fine of up to Sh200,000 or a two-year jail term.
Passaris, in sponsoring the legislation, argued that Kenya urgently needs a shift from punitive approaches to a more compassionate, structured response to addiction.
If passed, the law is expected to benefit thousands struggling with substance use disorder and their families, while easing the burden on overstretched public health facilities.
