NACADA launches strategic plan to combat alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya

KENYA – The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has unveiled its strategic plan for 2023-27, setting a comprehensive framework for resource allocation and efforts to build a culture aimed at eradicating alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya. 

During the launch, NACADA board chairperson Stephen Mairori emphasized the necessity of collective action in tackling the problem

“While NACADA is the focal point, we can’t win this war alone; we need everybody on board,” he stated, calling for concerted efforts from all stakeholders, particularly the county governments. 

Mairori highlighted that counties play a crucial role in this fight, noting that funds previously managed by NACADA for liquor licensing are now directed to county governments.  

These funds, generated from liquor licenses, are intended to bolster county-level initiatives against alcohol and drug abuse. 

“I want to request the counties to use that money in the fight against alcohol and drug abuse,” Mairori urged, cautioning counties against misappropriating these funds for other purposes.  

He called on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the public to hold counties accountable for the proper use of these resources. 

Mairori stressed the importance of empowering Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and collaborating with all stakeholders to effectively combat the menace of drug and alcohol abuse.  

“If we don’t cut the supply, we’ll keep treating people and yet the supply is high. We need to cut the supply so that as we move forward, we can treat those affected and be able to win this war,” he noted.  

The major focus of NACADA’s 2023-27 strategy is to address the supply side of drug and alcohol issues. 

In line with these efforts, NACADA has announced a nationwide crackdown on bars and liquor outlets situated near educational institutions.  

NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa stated that the crackdown will target establishments located less than 300 meters from schools or areas catering to individuals below 18 years of age.  

This initiative is grounded in the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010, which enforces legal action against anyone selling alcoholic drinks in prohibited locations.