Credit: President Ruto/X
President William Ruto has directed a comprehensive crackdown on alcohol and drug abuse, describing it as a national development and security threat.
The directive came during a high-level Strategic Interventions Meeting at State House, Nairobi, chaired by the President and attended by key government officials.
Interior PS Raymond Omollo, who shared details on X, said the meeting brought together CS Kipchumba Murkomen, IG Douglas Kanja, DCI Mohammed Amin, and NACADA leadership, among others.
The session focused on implementing the President’s Proclamation on Alcohol and Drug Control.
Officials agreed on immediate steps to strengthen legal, institutional, and operational measures.
The strategy prioritises prevention, enforcement, and recovery, with plans to expand rehabilitation services across all 47 counties.
Tighter border controls were also highlighted as a critical measure to disrupt trafficking networks.
“The multi-agency forum reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach,” PS Omollo said. “These interventions aim to safeguard national security, protect families, and secure Kenya’s socio-economic future.”
NACADA Chair Stephen Mairori and CEO Anthony Omerikwa, along with KEBS MD Esther Ngari, attended to guide regulatory and compliance measures.
Their input will complement enforcement efforts and ensure rehabilitation programmes are effectively rolled out.
The President’s meeting signals a coordinated national response, blending law enforcement, policy frameworks, and social support mechanisms.
Authorities emphasised the importance of collaboration with communities, civil society, and local governments to curb the impact of substance abuse.
This move marks a decisive shift in Kenya’s approach to tackling alcohol and drug abuse, treating it not only as a health issue but also as a matter of national security and societal well-being.