The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) West Pokot County Coordinator, Scollah Komen, has officially flagged off a five-day caravan roadshow aimed at sensitizing residents on the drug abuse across West Pokot.
The campaign, which began yesterday during Easter Monday, will run until Friday, April 10, covering all sub-counties.
Komen said the initiative seeks to reach communities at the grassroots level, particularly targeting youth and children during the school holiday periods.
She noted that NACADA research indicates a worrying rise in alcohol and sustenance abuse among young people in the county and across the country, with cases reported among children as young as seven years old.
Ms Komen noted the roadshow will therefore focus on engaging youth in villages and estates, educating them on the harmful effects of drug use, and encouraging them to make responsible life choices.
She also emphasized the role of parents in shaping their children’s behavior, urging them to practice positive parenting to raise disciplined and sober individuals.
She reiterated NACADA’s vision of achieving a healthy and drug-free society, calling for collective responsibility in making West Pokot a sober county.
According to NACADA findings, the county faces widespread consumption of illicit brews such as chang’aa and busaa, as well as the influx of cheap, sachet-packaged alcohol from Uganda. She warned that these substances pose serious health risks and are illegal under Kenyan law.
In addition, Komen highlighted that NACADA has established a local office in west Pokot, which has been operational for one year.
She encouraged residents to visit the office for public education and advocacy programs, noting that the agency is working closely with government institutions to combat substance abuse in line with national directives.
Representing the Deputy Commissioner for West Pokot Sub-County Wycliffe Munanda, Assistant County Commissioner Khaemba Wekesa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating illicit alcohol and drug abuse.
He said administrators, including chiefs and assistant chiefs, alongside the National Government Administrative Officers, are actively involved in enforcement efforts.
Wekesa warned that the use and trade of illegal brews and drugs will not be tolerated, and offenders will face arrest and prosecution.
He urged parents to closely monitor their children’s activities during the holidays to prevent exposure to harmful substances.
Also speaking at the event, Joel Amochir, Director of Compliance and licensing in the West Pokot County Government, said the county is working jointly with NACADA and enforcement agencies to curb illicit alcohol trade.
He confirmed reports of illegal alcohol being smuggled from Uganda and warned that those involved will face legal action.
Amochir stressed that only alcoholic products approved in Kenya will be allowed, and anyone violating the law will be prosecuted.
He further encouraged parents to keep their children engaged in productive activities during the holidays, including attending church programs such as vocational Bible schools to instill good morals.
By Anthony Melly
