Uasin Gishu County Launches Groundbreaking Strategy to Combat Drug and Alcohol Abuse During International Day Against Drug Abuse

 

 Uasin Gishu County has taken a firm stand against the growing challenge of drug and substance abuse by launching a comprehensive county-wide strategy aimed at tackling illegal drugs and illicit brews. This decisive action was highlighted during a robust sensitization event held in Langas ward to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADA).

The event brought together government officials, community leaders, non-governmental organizations, law enforcement agencies, and residents to address the social and health dangers posed by substance abuse. The Chief Guest, Uasin Gishu County Commissioner Dr. Eddyson Nyale, outlined the county government’s multifaceted approach to fighting this menace, which is among the leading causes of social decay and insecurity in the region.

“Today, as we join the world to observe IDADA, our focus is on enlightening residents about the devastating effects of illegal drugs and alcohol abuse. Recently, Uasin Gishu County pioneered a strategic plan—the first of its kind in Kenya—that combines prevention, rehabilitation, and enforcement measures to curb this vice,” Dr. Nyale announced.

Dr. Nyale explained that the strategy goes beyond enforcement to include empowering those addicted through alternative livelihood programs. “We want to help those who have fallen into the trap of drug abuse to reintegrate into society. This involves sensitizing the youth and entire communities about the dangers, providing rehabilitation, and creating economic opportunities to keep people away from drugs,” he added.

The Commissioner also spoke about ongoing efforts to assist street families and homeless individuals who are vulnerable to drug addiction. “We are working to relocate these families to safer environments where they can access treatment and support services. This initiative is crucial in breaking the cycle of addiction and homelessness.”

Hellen Karithi, a representative from the Jikaze Foundation—one of the key organizers of the event—highlighted the alarming rates of drug and substance abuse in Langas. “Our youths have been particularly affected by illegal substances, which have severely jeopardized their futures. Many families are witnessing the destruction of their children’s lives due to addiction,” she said.

Karithi praised the collaboration between government agencies and civil society in organizing outreach and rehabilitation programs. “We are working tirelessly to reach out to those addicted, providing them with counseling, skills training, and psychosocial support. We encourage those who have never used drugs to remain strong and avoid the temptation, while appealing to those struggling to seek help and rehabilitation,” she emphasized.

She also called upon all stakeholders, including community leaders, parents, religious groups, and security agencies, to unite and strengthen efforts against the scourge of drugs. “This fight requires a collective response, and we applaud the area police station, county commissioner, chiefs, and other partners for their commitment,” Karithi added.

The Alcoholic Drinks Control Board (ADCB) also reaffirmed its support for these initiatives. ADCB Director Koiya Arap Maiyo said, “The county government and our board have intensified efforts to combat illegal alcohol production and consumption. We have deployed officers around the clock to track and stop the distribution of illicit brews, which are a major cause of health and social problems.”

Director Maiyo disclosed that the government is working closely with multiple national agencies, including the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), and the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, to eliminate illegal alcohol from the market.

Statistics presented during the event indicated a worrying trend: approximately 8.5 percent of residents use tobacco or cigarettes, while 21 percent consume alcohol—with a significant portion favoring illicit brews. Additionally, 5 percent of the population use hard drugs such as cocaine and marijuana. “This means that one in five people in Uasin Gishu County consumes illegal alcohol. This is an urgent call for intensified preventive and enforcement actions,” Maiyo warned.

Elijah Lagat, a NACADA Board Member, elaborated on the root causes of the drug abuse crisis. “The increase in drug and alcohol use, especially in urban centers, is largely due to idleness and lack of employment opportunities. Many youths turn to illegal alcohol because it is cheaper, despite its high toxic content that severely harms their health and future prospects,” he explained.

Lagat emphasized the social consequences of substance abuse, noting that many young people affected by drug addiction face broken families, unemployment, and even death. “Drug abuse has reached levels where it affects marriage prospects and overall community wellbeing. Our message is clear—stay away from illegal alcohol and drugs and choose certified products that are safer,” he urged.

The IDADA celebrations in Langas included interactive sessions with youth groups, testimonials from former drug users who have reformed, and demonstrations of skills training programs offered as alternatives to drug use. The county government, through this campaign, aims to build resilience among youths, ensuring they have access to education, economic opportunities, and a drug-free lifestyle.