ARCHIVES
VOL. 11, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Socio-economic vulnerability and youth drug abuse in turkana central sub-county, Kenya
Authors
Romano Korodi Funo, Dr. Tioko Logiron, Dr. Otieno Evans
Abstract
Drug abuse among youth remains a major public health and socio-economic
challenge globally, with developing countries experiencing increasing rates of
substance use due to unemployment, poverty, weak social structures, and
changing cultural values. In Kenya, the problem has continued to affect the
social, economic, and psychological well-being of young people, particularly
those aged between 18 and 34 years. This study examined the socio-economic
determinants of drug abuse among youth in Turkana Central Sub-County, Kenya,
with specific focus on employment levels, cultural values, and education
levels. The study was anchored on Social Learning Theory and Sociocultural
Theory and adopted a descriptive research design. Data was collected from 100
youth respondents selected through cluster and simple random sampling, as well
as 30 key informants comprising area chiefs, village administrators, and ward
administrators selected purposively. Structured questionnaires and interview
guides were used in data collection, while SPSS was used to analyze
quantitative data through descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings
established that socio-economic factors significantly influence drug abuse
among youth in Turkana Central Sub-County. Regression analysis indicated that
education level had a statistically significant influence on drug abuse (B =
0.183, p = 0.014), while employment level and cultural values demonstrated
weaker relationships with drug abuse. Qualitative findings revealed that
unemployment, idleness, peer influence, weakening traditional cultural
structures, and low educational attainment were major contributors to substance
abuse among youth. The study concludes that socio-economic challenges continue
to expose youth to drug abuse despite existing interventions. It recommends
strengthening youth empowerment programs, improving access to education,
promoting culturally sensitive awareness initiatives, and creating sustainable
employment opportunities for young people in Turkana County.
Download
Pages:53-59
How to cite this article:
Romano Korodi Funo, Dr. Tioko Logiron, Dr. Otieno Evans "Socio-economic vulnerability and youth drug abuse in turkana central sub-county, Kenya". International Journal of Academic Research and Development, Vol 11, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 53-59
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.