The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Kenya has stepped up efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking as government officials warn that the country is grappling with an escalating substance abuse crisis, particularly among young people.
The concerns were raised during this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADA) celebrations held at the Miritini Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa County. The event was held under the theme, “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” and brought together government representatives, anti-drug agencies, community leaders, and rehabilitation stakeholders.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
New data released by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) shows that approximately 4.7 million Kenyans aged between 15 and 65 are currently using at least one drug or substance of abuse.
The Coast region recorded the highest prevalence rate at 29.3 percent, with Mombasa County topping the list at 34.4 percent.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo termed the findings alarming, saying they reflect a serious national challenge that requires urgent intervention.
“These are not just numbers. They represent our children, siblings, colleagues, and the country’s future workforce,” Omollo said, adding that every individual struggling with addiction deserves timely support and rehabilitation.
He noted that the government will continue implementing a multi-pronged strategy focusing on law enforcement, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society.
Omollo emphasized that while cracking down on traffickers remains important, lasting success will only be achieved through a balanced approach that addresses both supply and demand.
The renewed campaign comes shortly after authorities intercepted 1,024 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine valued at Sh8.2 billion in the Indian Ocean, one of the largest drug seizures ever recorded in Kenya.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks through enhanced intelligence gathering and stronger collaboration among security agencies.
He said authorities would relentlessly pursue traffickers wherever they operate to protect Kenyans from the harmful effects of narcotics.
Click Here To Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel
NACADA Board Chairman Bishop Dr. Stephen Mairori said the agency has introduced wastewater analysis technology to monitor drug consumption trends in near real-time, allowing authorities to respond more effectively to emerging threats.
He noted that as drug trends evolve, the country’s response strategies must also adapt.
The event also highlighted youth involvement in the fight against drugs through a national essay-writing competition for secondary school students. Omar Mohamed of Kongowea Secondary School in Mombasa was recognized for his winning essay on the role of parents and communities in protecting young people from substance abuse.
Speakers at the event stressed that addressing the drug menace requires collective action, calling on parents, schools, religious organizations, communities, and the private sector to work alongside the government in prevention and rehabilitation efforts.
Murkomen said every person rescued from addiction strengthens the nation, expressing optimism that a united effort can create a healthier, more productive generation capable of driving Kenya’s development.
