Uasin Gishu Graduates 13 Recovered Addicts as County Expands War on Drug Abuse

 By Wasike Elvis

The Uasin Gishu County Government has intensified its fight against alcohol and drug abuse following the graduation of 13 rehabilitated patients at the Moiben County Rehabilitation Centre, in a ceremony marked by emotional testimonies and renewed calls for collective action.

Speaking during the event, the Director of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Board (ADCB) in the county, Koiya Arap Maiyo, described the graduation as a major milestone in restoring hope to individuals and families affected by substance abuse.

“This is a special day for us as a county. We are celebrating 13 individuals who have successfully completed their rehabilitation journey. Their transformation is a testament to the effectiveness of this program,” said Maiyo.

The rehabilitation of the beneficiaries was fully funded by the county government under the leadership of Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim, who has prioritized the fight against drug and alcohol abuse through increased investment in treatment and recovery programs.

According to Maiyo, the county spent approximately KSh1 million to facilitate treatment, counseling, accommodation, and reintegration support for the group. He emphasized that the program is part of a broader policy aimed at ensuring residents battling addiction can access treatment free of charge.

“Our governor has made it clear that no resident should be denied a chance to recover due to lack of resources. That is why the county is sponsoring rehabilitation programs to ensure our people regain their dignity and productivity,” he said.

The ceremony was marked by emotional scenes as families reunited with their loved ones, many of whom had struggled with addiction for years. Parents and relatives expressed relief and joy, some shedding tears as they witnessed the transformation of those who had undergone treatment.

“We have seen parents crying tears of joy because their children have come back home transformed. These are lives that were once at risk but have now been restored,” Maiyo noted.

The Moiben Rehabilitation Centre, currently the county’s primary facility, has been operational for over two years, offering both inpatient and outpatient services. Patients receive structured treatment, including detoxification, counseling, and life skills training, while others benefit from outreach programs that support recovery from home.

 

Maiyo revealed that the county has made significant progress in addressing substance abuse, with dozens of individuals already rehabilitated through the program. He added that the government is now working to expand services by establishing additional rehabilitation centers across other sub-counties.

“We are planning to set up more centers so that services can be brought closer to the people. This will ensure that those in need do not have to travel long distances to access help,” he said.

In addition to rehabilitation efforts, the county has stepped up enforcement measures targeting the illegal manufacture and sale of alcohol and drugs. Maiyo disclosed that recent operations led to the seizure of over 12,500 litres of illicit alcohol and the arrest of several individuals involved in the illegal trade.

 

“We are conducting continuous operations across all sub-counties to ensure that illegal alcohol and drugs are eliminated. Those found engaging in such activities will be arrested and prosecuted,” he warned.

He particularly cautioned traders who target young people, especially during school holidays, urging them to desist or face legal consequences. He also called on parents and community members to play an active role in protecting children from exposure to harmful substances.

“Our children are at home during school holidays, and they are vulnerable. We must all take responsibility to ensure they are not exposed to drugs and alcohol,” he said.

 

The event also featured testimonies from graduates, including one recovering addict who shared his journey from addiction to recovery. He recounted how substance abuse had disrupted his life, affecting his work, relationships, and overall well-being.

“I was addicted to alcohol and cigarettes, and my life had lost direction. Through this program, I have learned discipline, responsibility, and how to rebuild my life,” he said.

He encouraged others struggling with addiction to seek help, noting that recovery begins with accepting the problem and taking the first step toward change.

“No one is beyond help. Once you accept your situation and seek assistance, you can recover. The support is there, and it is free,” he added.

The graduate further highlighted the structured training offered at the centre, including the “12 steps” of recovery, life skills development, and spiritual guidance, all of which contributed to his transformation.

“We were taught that change starts with the individual. If you decide to change, you can become a better person and contribute positively to society,” he said.

 

County officials reiterated that the fight against substance abuse requires a multi-sectoral approach involving government agencies, families, religious institutions, and the wider community. They emphasized that prevention, treatment, and enforcement must go hand in hand to effectively address the problem.

The Moiben graduation marked the seventh cohort from the facility, underscoring the county’s sustained investment in rehabilitation as a key pillar in combating drug and alcohol abuse.

As the county expands its efforts, residents have been urged to take advantage of the available services and report illegal activities to authorities, as part of a collective push to create a safer and healthier society.

“We will continue to support rehabilitation and intensify enforcement because the future of our county depends on a healthy and productive population,” Maiyo said.