Uasin Gishu County has taken a significant step forward in its journey toward improved healthcare and a healthier society, as Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii intensifies efforts to build a robust, motivated workforce and address the rising threat of alcohol and substance abuse across the region. These efforts form part of the county’s long-term development plan under the Nguzo Kumi blueprint.
Under the second pillar of the Nguzo Kumi agenda—focused on “Human Resource Development and Empowerment”—Governor Bii has placed a strong emphasis on investing in the county’s healthcare professionals and administrative personnel. His administration believes that a well-equipped and highly motivated workforce is the foundation of quality service delivery, especially in the health sector where compassion, skill, and consistency are paramount.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor during a high-level induction session for the newly appointed members of the Uasin Gishu Alcoholic Drinks Control Board, County Secretary Philip Meli underscored the importance of capacity building not just as a procedural formality, but as a transformative tool for long-term societal impact.
“You must refocus your mandate by running innovative programs that directly address the alarming rise in alcohol and drug abuse, particularly among school-going children,” Meli stated. “We are depending on your creativity and commitment to help reverse this dangerous trend and protect our future generations.”
The induction, held on Tuesday, brought together key figures from county legal, health, and policy-making departments. The session served not only to orient the board members to their legal and administrative responsibilities but also to cultivate a shared sense of mission—to be proactive protectors of public health.
County Attorney Sylvester Metto delivered a comprehensive presentation on the Uasin Gishu County Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, a critical piece of legislation designed to regulate the production, distribution, promotion, and sale of alcoholic beverages within the county. Metto explained that beyond its regulatory function, the Act places significant weight on public education, community engagement, and the rehabilitation of individuals battling substance dependence.
“This Act is not just about enforcement,” Metto emphasized. “It’s about protecting communities, providing second chances through structured rehabilitation programs, and shielding our youth from the harmful effects of substance abuse. Every provision of this law must be interpreted with the best interest of the people in mind.”
The appointment and training of the board come at a crucial time. Reports from local authorities and community-based organizations have shown a troubling rise in underage drinking and drug use, especially among school-going youth. This trend has been linked to broader social issues, including mental health challenges, school dropout rates, and even petty crime.
Governor Bii’s administration has pledged to confront this challenge head-on—not only through legal enforcement but by fostering partnerships across sectors, involving religious institutions, schools, civil society, and law enforcement agencies.
As part of the broader strategy, the county government is also ramping up support for rehabilitation centers and community outreach programs. Plans are underway to expand access to mental health services, launch public awareness campaigns, and strengthen the county's surveillance systems for monitoring alcohol and drug abuse trends.
These measures reflect Governor Bii’s people-centered governance philosophy—one that sees health as a holistic concept, encompassing physical, mental, and social well-being.
The capacity-building program for the Alcoholic Drinks Control Board is part of a broader framework under the Nguzo Kumi blueprint, which includes ten key pillars aimed at transforming Uasin Gishu into a model county. These pillars touch on governance, youth empowerment, healthcare, agriculture, education, infrastructure, and digital transformation, among others.
As the implementation of this development blueprint accelerates, residents and stakeholders are beginning to see tangible outcomes. Healthcare workers have reported improved morale thanks to increased training opportunities, while community leaders have praised the county’s inclusive approach to governance.
Governor Dr. Bii’s commitment to both policy implementation and human dignity continues to define his leadership style—one that prioritizes long-term impact over short-term political gains.
“When we invest in our people, we invest in our future,” Governor Bii has repeatedly stated in past forums. “A skilled, inspired, and well-cared-for workforce is the engine of service delivery and the soul of any successful administration.”
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