The truth behind addiction lies hidden in the human stories we often overlook. As a society, our most important responsibility is to hear and understand these stories. Because addiction is not a sign of moral weakness, but the silent cry of deep-seated pain. As the wise elders of our village say: "You don't cast away a wounded child—you heal them." This ancient wisdom carries a philosophy that could fundamentally transform the modern world's approach to addiction.  

The journey into addiction typically begins not with drugs, but with broken dreams. When our youth struggle under the crushing weight of unemployment and anxiety about the future, when they grow up in the shadow of domestic violence, or when they feel rejected by society, substances can appear as an escape. Even more painful is the realization that by labeling addicted individuals as "mlevi" (drunkard) or "mpotovu" (useless), we actually push them further away from the path to recovery.  

The profound Swahili proverb guides us: "Mguu wa kuku haumchomi kuku" – A chicken never burns its own foot. Just like this, we have a duty not to exclude addicted members of our community, but to heal them. This wisdom is the cornerstone of collective recovery.  

Small changes in our language can open doors to great transformations. Using terms like "Mtu anayependekeza" (person in recovery) or "Mwenye uwezo" (person with potential) represents a radical shift in mindset. This simple yet powerful change in vocabulary should form the foundation of all community health initiatives.  

Real solutions emerge when communities mobilize their own resources. The solidarity networks we establish in our villages, the skills workshops we offer our youth, the intergenerational wisdom we pass down—these are the unsung heroes in the fight against addiction. Our traditional craft apprenticeships don't just teach trades; they give young people a purpose to hold onto in life.  

We must remember our ancestors' saying: "One hand doesn't clap." The battle against addiction is too great a responsibility to leave to healthcare workers or families alone. We need to have these conversations in our schools, places of worship, and village squares. We must share recovery stories and multiply examples of success.  

The "Mguu wa kuku haumchomi kuku" wisdom teaches us: Healing our community's wounds is our shared duty. Fighting addiction is ultimately about defending human dignity. Every member of our village is a natural participant in this struggle.  

Let us remember that every individual who recovers makes our community stronger. This journey requires all of us to play our part—so we ask you now: Where will you position yourself in this healing story? By sharing this message with local leaders, religious figures, educators and parents, you can join the movement that transforms despair into hope. Because while addiction thrives in silence, it dies in community.  

Written by: On behalf of Rural African Matters CBO Kenya Representative Sai Allan Agesa