Baringo woman Representative, Florence Jematia, has challenged the youth from the county to refrain from alcohol and drug abuse for a better future.
Jematia made the call during the groundbreaking ceremony of the 10,000 seater Kabarnet Stadium at the ASK Baringo branch showground on Wednesday, where she lamented over alarming levels of alcoholism and drug abuse in the county.
She pointed out that the crisis has even led to some of the youth missing out on the recent countrywide National Police Service (NPS) recruitment, which saw quite a number of them being disqualified after reporting to training school.
The legislator advised them to change their ways so that they become respectable and productive members of the society.
“Don’t mess with your lives at your tender ages; even if you are facing a challenge, talk to someone for help because drugs will harm you more,” she groaned.
Jematia, who also decried the increase in teenage pregnancies, particularly in remote parts of the county, called on all stakeholders to team up in rescuing the situation, which she pointed out has been heavily contributed to by risky behaviours such as alcoholism and drug abuse.
Her sentiments were echoed by Baringo Central Member of Parliament, Joshua Kandie, who urged the local security apparatus not to relent in the fight against drug abuse.
Kandie lauded the county security team for their efforts in nabbing over 300 cartons of second-generation alcohol during a recent crackdown in Kabarnet town, calling for the sellers to be charged in court and the product destroyed until sanity is restored within the county headquarters.
The MP reaffirmed his unwavering support for initiatives meant to safeguard the wellbeing of especially the youth who are facing drug addiction.
County Commissioner Stephen Kutwa, in his remarks, asked for the youth to be provided with alternatives after they quit alcoholism and drug abuse.
He noted that engaging the youth in sport activities plays a crucial role in reducing idleness, which often leads to criminal lifestyles.
By Benson Kelio and Joshua Kibet
