Lilian Nyiva
A Grade 10 student from Kilifi County has been named the overall winner of the 2026 National Senior School Essay Writing Competition on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention, organised by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).
Faith Munyazi Wugoma of Helping Hands Senior School emerged victorious after beating 1,153 entries submitted by students from 132 schools across 39 counties, highlighting strong nationwide participation in the annual competition.
Top Three Winners
Faith Munyazi Wugoma claimed the national title, followed by Rukia Abdi of Garbatulla Girls Secondary School in Isiolo County, who finished second. Angel Wangari of AIC Morop Girls Senior School in Nakuru County secured third place.
Promoting Drug-Free Schools
The competition was held under the theme, "Protecting Our Future: Making Drug-Free Choices in School and Beyond." Students were invited to write essays addressing issues such as the effects of alcohol and drug abuse on academic performance, peer pressure, social media influence, the role of schools and communities in prevention, and strategies for resisting substance abuse.
NACADA Commends Students
NACADA Board Chairperson Bishop Dr. Stephen Mairori praised the quality of the submissions, saying the essays demonstrated that young people are increasingly aware of the dangers posed by alcohol and drug abuse and are ready to contribute to prevention efforts.
The authority said the competition forms part of its broader strategy to engage learners in promoting healthy lifestyles and strengthening drug abuse prevention initiatives in schools across the country.
