President William Ruto has announced a raft of decisive measures aimed at intensifying Kenya’s fight against alcohol and drug abuse, signalling a whole-of-government approach to tackle the menace that continues to threaten public health and national security.
In a press statement send to newsroom this afternoon , the President said he chaired a high-level multi-agency meeting to accelerate the country’s response to substance abuse, in line with commitments outlined in his New Year Address. The meeting brought together key government agencies involved in prevention, enforcement, treatment and recovery.
As part of the renewed crackdown, the government will finalise the relevant legal framework to strengthen coordination and accountability across state agencies. President Ruto said additional officers are being deployed to the Anti-Narcotics Unit, alongside specialised training and enhanced logistical support to improve operational effectiveness.
The government will establish rehabilitation centres in all 47 counties in collaboration with county governments and the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA). These efforts will be complemented by strengthened rehabilitation services in national referral hospitals, while the Social Health Authority is set to enhance health cover for treatment and recovery of individuals battling addiction.
To disrupt drug trafficking networks and organised crime, President Ruto announced the deployment of multi-agency border teams at five key entry points, targeting supply chains that fuel the illicit drug trade.
“Our focus remains clear — we will apply a whole-of-government approach integrating prevention, enforcement, treatment and recovery to safeguard our people and national security,” the President said.
