Calls for collaboration among parents and education stakeholders are essential to successfully combat drug and alcohol abuse among learners.
While affirming that the government remains dedicated to deploying various strategies with the aim of protecting learners from being indulged in drugs and alcohol abuse, Narok Central Deputy County Commissioner (DCC), Mr Kennedy Mwangome advised parents against abdicating their responsibility of guiding and imparting morals to their children.
Speaking at Narok Teachers Training College where he was chief guest during a sensitisation drive against drug and substance abuse for students, religious leaders and parents, Mr Mwangome further said a coordinated, whole-of-government response has been rolled out aimed at curbing the production, distribution and consumption of illicit substances, including bootleg liquor.
“This move follows a recent Presidential Proclamation on Alcohol and Drug Control, which calls for enhanced enforcement, prevention, rehabilitation, and asset recovery through inter-agency collaboration and expanded operational capacity,” noted the administrator.
He regretted that drug abuse has had a devastating impact on many families in the county, particularly affecting young people.
“This sensitisation drive is very important because drugs have destroyed many lives, especially among the youth. When students, parents and religious leaders are involved, the message reaches homes more effectively,” he said.
He issued a stern warning to drug peddlers, terming them enemies of the country who are out to ruin the future of young people.
Mwangome described alcohol and drug abuse as a silent but deadly crisis threatening the country’s health, security, and economic future.
According to the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) one in every six Kenyans aged between 15 and 65, more than 4.7 million people, is currently using at least one drug or substance of abuse.
This, Mwangome noted was no longer a marginal issue but a national emergency.
Alcohol remains the most widely used substance, with more than 3.2 million current users. Initiation often occurs between the ages of 16 and 20, and in some cases as early as seven, exposing children to lifelong harm before adulthood begins.
The administrator said the government’s resolve is translating into coordinated, intelligence-led operations that are dismantling drug networks, disrupting supply chains, and denying criminal syndicates the proceeds of their illicit trade adding that security officers had impounded a truck suspected of ferrying contraband alcohol into Narok Town.
The sensitisation programme themed ‘Empowering communities for a brighter future’ is part of a broader strategy to strengthen community-based interventions aimed at reducing drug use, particularly among the youth.
Mwangome assured parents that all national government administration officers in Narok County were alert and ensuring that no one lures Kenyan children into drugs and alcohol, adding that as a government they are obligated to protect boys and girls from criminals who want to destroy a generation.
He urged students to prioritise their education and academic achievement as the primary path to a successful future.
The administrator advised students to surround themselves with positive influencers and avoid social media lifestyles that glamorise drug use.
Mr Mwangome said students struggling with addiction should be encouraged to utilize guidance and counseling services or seek rehabilitation rather than suffering in silence
He emphasised that religious leaders play a critical role in shaping moral values and influencing behaviour within communities due to their close interaction with families and young people.
“Religious leaders need to be incorporated in these initiatives and are a vital link in the fight against drugs because of their regular engagement with households and young people. They are trusted voices who can guide, counsel and support those at risk,” he said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report cases of illegal alcohol trade to relevant authorities.
DCC John Gathogo from the area County Commissioner’s office said they are actively conducting sensitisation campaigns targeting students in universities, colleges, and schools to combat rising substance abuse.
Key efforts, he said, include awareness workshops, research-based initiatives, and collaborative partnerships, with a recent focus on high rates of addiction among university students.
By Emily Kadzo
