Certification of addiction professionals in Africa: an overview of the process in Kenya

Richard M Gakunju Kcac Iii,George Murimi Kcac Iii

doi:10.4038/ijptsud.v1i3-4.7846

Richard M Gakunju Kcac Iii, George Murimi Kcac Iii

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.4038/ijptsud.v1i3-4.7846

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Abstract

Correction: Due to an error in the online publication of this journal, the publication date of this issue was recorded as 2014. The publication date was corrected to 2015 on 3 rd September 2015. The date on the cover is correct. This paper focuses on Kenya’s course of action to address the drug problem, specifically, treatment and rehabilitation of persons with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). Treatment and rehabilitation of persons with SUDs was formally initiated in Kenya in 1978 and has grown since early 2000. Kenya national strategy on prevention, control and mitigation of drug and substance abuse in 2009 highlighted the essence of provision of quality, comprehensive and holistic care programmes to drug users and their immediate families. According to the 2009 - 2014 National Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA’s) strategic plan, there was a need to improve the overall legal framework on treatment of SUDs. Thus certification process and National Standards were established so that practices are consistent with international guidelines of services offered by treatment providers. To improve treatment and rehabilitation, one must ensure that the people who work in drug addiction related matters in Kenya are not only trained but also licensed to practice based on their level of education, training and supervised experience. This paper outlines the training, examination and certification of Kenyan service providers to provide standard and quality services to treat and rehabilitate SUDs. International Journal of Prevention and Treatment of Substance Use Disorders 2015;1(3-4):153-163

Highlights

Africa is the second largest and the second most populous continent in the world with a population of about 1.111 billion people.[1]
The World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNODC World Drug reports indicate that the continent has not been spared the problem of drug abuse and trafficking
This paper will focus on what Kenya is doing in order to address the drug problem: treatment and rehabilitation of persons with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs)

Summary

Introduction

Africa is the second largest and the second most populous continent in the world with a population of about 1.111 billion people.[1]. The national standards on treatment and rehabilitation of persons with SUDs was developed in 2009 to address best practices in the treatment and rehabilitation of such persons that would include their families and significant others Physicians, healthcare providers, insurers and quality organisations will refer to the certification process as a means of measuring a professional’s knowledge, experience and skills to provide quality care The objective of this exercise is to give an opportunity to addiction professionals in Kenya to enrol and participate in the certification process and receive credentials required for professional practice. Will be in the hands of qualified and competent personnel who can guarantee quality

Staff qualifications and registration

Staff composition

Findings

Research and outcome studies